Paul Paton is looking to get the band back together at Dundee United - with John Rankin and Nadir Ciftci apparently ready for action.

The former Terrors midfielder made the plea to Turkish internationalist Ciftci over Instagram messages, lobbying for Rankin to land the top managers' job following Robbie Neilson's departure to Hearts.

Paton - following his release from Dunfermline earlier this summer - says he fancies a crack as Rankin's assistant and has offered ex-Celtic and Motherwell hitman Ciftci the number nine slot in the starting lineup.

He wrote: "Rankin manager - Paton assistant - Nads number 9 - you up for that?" And Ciftci took the offer in his stride, replying: "Hahahaha na no number 9, 7 but I'll play at 9 no problem haha what's happening for D United?"

Paton captioned the screenshot: "That's one sorted" before fans jumped on the bandwagon insisting he should round up the old gang. One laughed: "If you can get a commitment from Stretch, Gauldie and GMS as well, I think the bookies might slash your odds!"

Another said: "Don't forget Robbo," referencing Liverpool's Andy Robertson. A third commented: "Getting the band back together."

Paton previously tagged United's sporting director Tony Asghar in a tweet, writing: "It makes sense" attached with a photo of a Paton flag.