CITY FRIENDLY HUGE BOOST FOR SAINTS

ST JOHNSTONE have arranged a friendly against Manchester City for next midweek.

Unfortunately, the game is not at McDiarmid Park but in Manchester — and it’s behind closed doors.

New City manager Pep Guardiola has already had his charges in action in preseason as their build-up continues. Their games have i ncluded a penalty shootout win against Borussia Dortmund.

Saints gaffer Tommy Wright is a former Manchester City player, turning out 34 times for them.

He said of next midweek’s match: “It has come out of the blue through a contact of mine and I believe we will be up against Manchester City’s first team.

“We were, as you can imagine, delighted accept the opportunity.

“It will be a fantastic experience for the players and will add the final piece to our pre-season plans.”

Saints stress the game will definitely be played behind closed doors with no public access.

The match will be an ideal build-up for Saints’ opening league game at home to Aberdeen a week on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Saints face Stirling Albion at home in the Betfred Cup tomorrow, knowing a win will see them finish top of their section.

Ke i t h Wa t s o n , D av e Mackay, DavidWotherspoon and Ally Gilchrist are still out injured.

Tommy is determined to see his side finish on top of the group so they are seeded for the next round. to