IT'S a dress-rehearsal for the William Hill Scottish Cup final today when Dundee United take on St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park.

And Tommy Wright's side will be facing a United outfit not only buoyant after knocking out Rangers in the semi-final, but flying high after three of their most talented kids - Stuart Armstrong, Ryan Gauld and Andy Robertson - were named on the short-list for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award.

Midfield general Armstrong - currently being checked out by, among others, Celtic - admitted this recognition and the cup final have ensured a fantastic end to their campaign.

The man studying for a law degree said: "It's nice to be nominated and it's great that some of the other boys are involved, too.

"Each of us is saying we're going to win - but it's more just a bit of laugh between us.

"Of course, with any footballer, you need that little streak. Andy's probably got it most.

"He's got a bit of a temper on him. Maybe it's because he's Glaswegian.

"On the way down for the short list announcement, he kept saying we were on our way to the big smoke and that he knew his way around the town."

All joking aside, the full-back - who was playing for Queen's Park last season, but has now won his first Scotland cap - has impressed Armstrong with his drive and determination.

"Andy's very passionate about winning, and he's not happy when that doesn't happen," said Armstrong, who has also gained a foothold in Gordon Strachan's squad.

"Sometimes that's a good trait to have, but I'm the calming influence.

"Gauldy's very much the same. He concentrates on himself and doesn't let anything faze him too much."

The 22-year-old Invernessian added: "We're all very much enjoying our football just now, and that shows.

"But, there's a lot of luck in football. Sometimes it goes for you, sometimes it goes against you.

"This season it's gone very well."