Craig Brewster appears likely to return to Dunfermline

But Brewster could make a quick return to management with former club Dunfermline Athletic.

Brewster might have saved his job had the SPL's bottom side beaten Falkirk on Saturday, but they were hammered 5-1.

United, though, insisted on Sunday that the player-boss had left "by mutual and amicable agreement".

Assistant Malcolm Thomson has also left the club, the pair having led the club to just two victories in 28 league games during their 10 months at Tannadice.

United director Derek Robertson said: "Following detailed discussions, it was agreed that it was now in the best interests of Dundee United, Craig Brewster and Malky Thomson to part on amicable and mutually respectful terms.

I wish Dundee United every success in the future Craig Brewster

"We are hugely disappointed that Craig Brewster's latest spell with the club should end in this way.

"However, the future of Dundee United is dependent on securing a position based on results.

"And all parties recognise that results and performances have been less than acceptable and less than Dundee United supporters deserve.

"Craig Brewster leaves the club with his integrity intact and we would like to take this opportunity to wish him and Malky every success in their future careers."

Brewster, who played for United for three seasons, returned to Tannadice after a fairly successful spell in charge of Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The striker told United's website: "I wish to put on record my gratitude to the directors, coaching staff, players, all Dundee United support staff and, in particular, Dundee United supporters for their loyal and continuous backing.

"I wish Dundee United every success in the future."

Now it is understood that he could return to another of his former clubs, Dunfermline.