Resilience has been plentiful in Jim Goodwin’s managerial career.

From the historic lows of a shock cup defeat to Darvel to the ultimate disappointment of championship relegation, he’s faced significant challenges.

Now, as his depleted Dundee United squad prepares for a crucial Conference League qualifier against Rapid Vienna, he’ll need his players to demonstrate that same strength of character.

The task ahead is immense. As Goodwin revealed, the team was missing “seven or eight influential players” for their recent 3-2 defeat against Hearts and key figures like Ryan Strain, Ross Graham and Kristian Trapanovski remain sidelined for the visit of Rapid Vienna. Their absence leaves significant gaps in a squad that is already struggling.

The third-round qualifying tie hangs in the balance after a thrilling 2-2 first leg. In a gutsy performance, United twice fought back from a goal down to secure a draw, keeping their European dream alive. New signings Zac Sapsford and Max Watters were instrumental, scoring the crucial goals and looking like a real threat throughout the match.

Goodwin described the atmosphere as “hostile”, “The players put in a great performance, we’ve taken learnings from the game and areas that we think we can improve and do better, I think both goals against were certainly avoidable.”

Rapid Vienna dominated large portions of the first leg and spurned several chances in the Allianz Stadion. They followed up the 2-2 draw with an impressive 2-1 win against Champions League hopefuls Sturm Graz. Goodwin knows that “they will take a lot of confidence from that.

What’s at stake?

The winner will advance to the play-off round, just two games away from securing a spot in the Conference League group stage. They will face the winner of the match between Swedish side AIK Stockholm and Hungary’s FC Gyor.

Jim Goodwin’s thoughts

“There won’t be any need or motivational speeches from me. The players know what is at stake, they know the opportunity that they’ve got and it should make for a fantastic fixture.

“But at the flip side, we know that Rapid Vienna are a really good team and probably still in a lot of peoples eyes are favourites, albeit they are the away team.

“With a really good home support, I’m led to believe the game is practically sold out. I don’t think there is a ticket to have, but if the fans can get behind the team, generate a really positive atmosphere and drive the players on, hopefully it will be a memorable one that we look back on in years to come.”