Kearney says Mendes is the perfect fit for Saints
Junior Mendes will take up a new position with St Mirren on Monday, with boss Oran Kearney keen to see him in action.
Mendes, a member of the Buddies that famously won the First Division in 2000, has handed in his notice with Championship side Partick Thistle to pave the way for a return to the Paisley outfit.
The 42-year-old will take up the role of strength and conditioning coach after the position was vacated at the end of last month.
And Kearney admits Mendes’previous ties with the club were key to securing his appointment as the Northern Irishman puts his own stamp on the club’s backroom staff.
Kearney said:“Junior will be coming in as strength and conditioning coach.
“He has a week to work with Partick and will start on Monday.
“You do your homework on him, and it is a big role he has to play when he comes in.
“He will have a lot of contact time with the players.
“That person is the first port of call with the players in the morning, the first 20-25 minutes of training as well.
“He can have a huge impact on the players on a daily basis.
“Particularly having played, not just for the club but the game, it is good to have someone in that role as well.
“He knows the club and understands what the club is about.”