Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara has insisted that he 'respects' Nadir Ciftci's decision not to sign a new contract with the club.

The striker will run down the final 12 months of his current deal after turning down the chance to extend his stay at Tannadice Park.

Ciftci scored 16 goals last season as United secured a fifth-place finish in the Scottish Premiership table.

"Nadir is a top performer for us and his worth to the team is much more than goals," McNamara is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"People forget he is a young player and we are pleased to be part of his development while getting the best of him on the pitch. We respect his decision and his ambition as we know he's attracted significant attention from other clubs.

"However, I'm looking forward to welcoming him back for the new season so that he can be part of a side that will once again challenge at the top of the game."

Ciftci moved to Tannadice Park from Dutch side NAC Breda in 2013.