Saints injury concerns are now starting to ease

ST JOHNSTONE’S injury concerns are easing.

Stefan Scougall stepped off the substitutes bench in the away defeat against Dundee and Callum Hendry has also re-started training.

David McMillan is close to full training as he nears recovery from the hamstring injury that has plagued him since late January.

However, Chris Kane, Blair Alston and Denny Johnstone are out for the season and Brian Easton is not yet back in full training.

Murray Davidson is also missing from the squad to face Partick Thistle at home on Saturday as he is serving the second of a two-match ban.

Looking back on the Dundee loss, Saints team boss Tommy Wright said: “We can’t defend like we did for their goals. These mistakes cost us and the second one will keep me awake at night.

“Collectively, we must deal with the situation.

“We were the better team but the goals we lost typify our season. They were two poor goals to lose.”

Tommy had words of praise for a departing striker and one who is just starting his career with Saints.

Steven MacLean, who has signed a pre-contract with Hearts, netted the goal against Dundee, and Tommy said: “The club and the fans recognise that Steven is a top-class professional who will give his all for the club.

“And wee John Robertson came on near the end for his first-team debut. He is only 16 and was unlucky with an effort.”

Robertson is the first player born this millenium to appear in Saints’ first team.

Saints’ U/20s are at home to Dundee United tonight (6pm).

Neil McCann