Emotional Kevin McDonald has thanked the Dundee United fans for their patience with him as he made it through his first game in 19 months.
And the former Scotland cap has vowed to pay them back with his performances on the pitch now he has a new “home” at Tannadice.
McDonald hadn’t played since July 2020 as he underwent a kidney transplant made possible by his brother Fraser.
It’s been a long road back to fitness for the former Dundee midfielder, who made more than 300 appearances for Wolves, Sheffield United and Fulham – winning promotion to the Premier League at Wembley with the latter.
But after a trial spell with Tannadice club, he penned a deal until the end of the season earlier in February and Wednesday night’s clash with Motherwell gave him the moment he has long been waiting for.
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The 33-year-old played 73 minutes of the 2-0 win and speaking to The Courier, he has reflected on the emotional experience – labelling it one of the best nights of his life.
He said: “It was an unbelievable night for me. I’ve played in some massive games of football like play-off finals and in the English Premier League.
“I could never forget the feeling of beating Aston Villa with Fulham at Wembley, but from a life perspective, this is one of the best experiences I’ve had.
“The Dundee United fans were patient with me. I had a couple of misplaced passes but they showed a lot of respect in not getting on at me.
“They understand that I haven’t played for almost two years. I thank every single one of the fans for their attitude.
“They gave me a great reception coming out and even gave me a big applause when I was just warming up.
“It’s a massive boost to be play football in front of fans again.
“I appreciate all the support from the football community and I’ve felt support throughout the world. It comes together for things like this and that’s the way it should be.
“Football fans can be very supportive and I now have some very supportive fans at Dundee United.
“This is now my home and I’ll make it up to these fans with performances for United.”
