Liam Grimshaw joined Dundee United in the summer and they’ve made an outstanding start to the campaign

Liam Grimshaw is a modern-day footballer like no other – Mr Versatile on it who is desperate for silverware at Dundee United.

Off it, a man who takes a keen interest in horse racing and writing with the former Man Utd youngster revealing that he almost bought a share in Corach Rambler who won the Grand National in April and is set to feature at the Gold Cup in Cheltenham. Players in today’s world are renowned for Nandos, golfing and technology but that isn’t the way for the 28-year-old.

Ahead of this afternoon’s table-topping clash against Raith Rovers, the midfielder wants to continue winning for gaffer Jim Goodwin who picked up September’s manager of the month award who leaves “no stone unturned.”

Grimshaw said: “I’m really into horses and am good friends with Thomas Kendall who owns a share in Corach Rambler, which won the Grand National earlier this year.

“It was an incredible story – although I could have been involved in it myself. Peter Scudamore offered me a share not long after they bought it but it wasn’t the right time for me and I said no!

“I was playing for Morton at Dundee the day he won at Aintree, we conceded a last-minute goal to draw 3-3. The dressing room was quite subdued. The lads all had it on their phone watching and it was exciting to see them win it.

“It’s good to have different things to be interested in because football can be quite consuming at times so it’s good to be able to switch off and focus on other things. It helps you stay fresh and have an open mind.

“I enjoy writing, I do it to keep my mind occupied. I’m really into history, sport and travelling so it’s good to put things down when I think of them. I am going to do a piece for Nutmeg magazine soon so I’m looking forward to that. I think I’m going to do it on some of the Scots who were involved at Man Utd, we’ll see.

“The gaffer has been great, I’ve loved it since I came here. I have settled in well and that’s testament to the manager, the staff and the rest of the lads.

“He has high standards and he drives us hard in training, but it’s still enjoyable. We have a laugh and a joke but when it’s time to get to work it’s all about putting the graft in. The coaching team leave no stone unturned, from the tactical side to nutrition – everything is covered. This is a good place to come and improve as a player.

“The manager had a good career himself, he’s learned from that and is implementing good things for us here. When you enjoy your job, you have the right support and you’re working hard that makes it easier to give a bit extra.

“What you’ve seen from us is everyone is on the same page and getting stronger all the time.”