The defender has had a successful loan stint with Jim Goodwin's men and he wants to make sure they get into Europe
22:30, 09 May 2025
Emmanuel Adegboyega opens up on Dundee United
Emmanuel Adegboyega opens up on Dundee United
Emmanuel Adegboyega has admitted he is determined to finish the job he started by leaving Dundee United in Europe.
The defender has had a successful loan from Norwich City that has left Jim Goodwin’s side on the verge of European football.
United could clinch that by maintaining their 100% record against St Mirren when they travel to Tannadice.
Adegboyega said: “I was here from the start so when I’m into something I want to finish it. We are close to the line, we want to get something special achieved by the end of the season.
“We have to grab it with both hands and take it. When I came, I had my personal goals which were to get into the team.
“As a team we had our goals as well, people were saying to get into the top six but we wanted to aim higher and that’s what we can do.
Article continues below
“We still have a lot to play for but it has to be game-by-game, we can’t focus on Aberdeen or Rangers because the next one is the most important.”
The 21-year-old has previous experience of qualifying for Europe but this time he really wants to play his part with Dundalk but he missed the campaign because he moved to Drogheda.
He explained: “I was on the bench when they made Europe. I remember all the emotion and the banners when they got European football. It gives you a sense of what it means to a fanbase.
“But I wasn't part of the squad, so I didn't really feel it. Now I can be part of a squad that can possibly achieve that. That's what I want to feel.
“I left before that European campaign. I had to go and seek first team football for myself, for my own development.
“I had to do what was best for myself and that's what I did at the time.”
The Irishman is out-of-contract at Norwich City and they have an option. The situation has been made more complicated with the recent managerial change at Carrow Road.
The defender confirmed: “This is my last season, with an option if they want to take it up or not. I need to focus on the present. Is that easy to do? Definitely not. It's very tough.
“But I think if you simplify it to just looking forward to the next day – relishing the next game – then there is some control in that.
“This season was mainly about putting myself in a good position.
Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin
Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin
"Jim Goodwin has been great with me all season, so I'm not going to hesitate to pick up the phone to him.
“Norwich have been pleased. There have been some kind and good words from their side. As a young player, that's what I like to hear.
“I haven't actually met Jack Wilshire yet. I haven't had a conversation with him, so maybe that's something for the summer.
“It would be nice to go back there, meet the new staff and meet Jack Wilshere as well – I'm an Arsenal fan as well, so it would be nice!”
Adegboyega is amongst a number of United players who is struggling with a knock but is prepared to play through the pain barrier for the cause.
He said: “My groin is a bit touch and go, I’ve had small issues since the Aberdeen away game.
“So I have been trying to keep it going until the end of the season but everyone is the same.
Article continues below
“Most players at every club in every league are just getting through. I’ve just been trying to strengthen it so I can keep playing.”
Ross Graham misses out but Goodwin will give Declan Gallagher and Sam Cleall-Harding until the last minute.