Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has described Dario Naamo's omission from Iraq's World Cup squad as a 'real kick in the teeth' and has challenged the defender to channel his disappointment into strong performances for his club.
Naamo's International Switch and Snub
Naamo, who previously represented Finland at under-21 level, switched his international allegiance to Iraq through his father ahead of the 2026 World Cup finals. He was called up by Iraq coach Graham Arnold for pre-tournament friendlies but was ultimately left out of the final 23-man squad.
Goodwin said: 'Obviously, Dario was disappointed because it was a big decision for him. It was a very family-involved decision because he’s grown up in Finland but had ties to Iraq as well. It was a big call for him, I think he felt that once he’d made that decision there were assurances he’d be in the World Cup squad. So to then not make it was a real kick in the teeth for him.'
Challenge to Prove Himself
The Dundee United boss has now challenged the young defender to put the setback behind him and focus on his club form as the best route to future international recognition.
'He’s made his decision, he has to put it behind him now and focus on getting minutes for Dundee United. The challenge for him is to be playing at a good level for us so that when the next international squad comes out, he’s very much in that. He’s a very young lad, he’s got a lot of time on his side and more World Cups to be involved in. He will get a chance in future to show they made the wrong decision leaving him out,' Goodwin added.
Transfer Activity and Young Players
Meanwhile, Dundee United have accepted a £1.8 million bid from a Czech club for Irish international Will Ferry, the vice-captain, who is now considering the move. The club has strengthened its squad this summer, which may lead to several young players being sent out on loan to gain experience.
Defender Sam Cleall-Harding is a target for Dunfermline Athletic, while Owen Stirton and Ruari Adams have also attracted interest. Goodwin explained: 'We have had a lot of interest in our younger players, there have been clubs on asking about our plans for them. Sam Cleall-Harding has played his part for us over the last couple of seasons and is a player we have high hopes for. Owen Stirton, Ruari Adams as well, we have to make sure their development is not being hindered by remaining at Dundee United when they could be playing more minutes elsewhere. So we have to look at the bigger picture, what’s best for the player and what’s best for the club. So if going out on loan for a season, half a season or whatever it may be would be beneficial then that’s what we’ll decide. There is interest in our younger players but, right now, we’re not in a position to let anyone out.'
