IN PERTH FOR DUO
ST JOHNSTONE manager Tommy Wright is cutting loose injury-jinxed Keith Watson and winger Michael Coulson as he builds for next season.
The Perth boss, who has tied up keeper Alan Mannus on a new deal, has told two of last summer’s signings they don’t figure in his plans.
Former Dundee United centre-back Watson was brought in from St Mirren but injuries have limited his opportunities to shine.
And English wide man Coulson was restricted to a bit-part role as Saints secured fourth place and a Europa League spot.
Both players have 12 months left on their contracts but speaking at the Sidey Dave Mackay Testimonial Golf Day at Blairgowrie, Wright said: “I have told Michael and Keith they can find new clubs. Keith has been hampered by injury although he’s well on the mend now.
“Both need to be playing and they have not had the amount of games they would have liked or we would have liked.
“I also need to free up some money to help the chairman.”
Wright has persuaded keeper Mannus, 35, to pen a new deal despite interest from Motherwell.
The former Shamrock Rovers player lost his No.1 status to Zander Clark but reclaimed the jersey for the last nine games.
Wright said: “We are delighted to get Alan signed up again.
“Alan hasn’t asked for any guarantees so it will be the same next season. Both keepers start on a level footing and we’ll see what happens.”
Meanwhile, striker Graham Cummins could have the key to Euro success for Saints in the summer – his old man.
He wants former club Cork in the Europa League after Tommy Wright’s squad cemented their place as fourth-best team in the Premiership.
Cummins is heading home to Ireland for a break before returning to pre-season training ahead of the first Euro qualifier on June 29.
And the 29-year-old said: “My dream draw would be Cork. I’m not saying that because it would be easy. It wouldn’t because they’re flying in the league right now.
“My dad goes to see them home and away so if we do draw them he’ll be able to fill us in about who’s playing well.
“If it happens and the gaffer wants to pay me a few quid extra then I’ll happily go home and scout for him.”