IT’S A WINWIN MOVE
Baird switch to Morton suits us all, says Goody
Saints defender Jack Baird has joined Renfrewshire rivals Morton on loan until January.
The 23-year-old has made four appearances this season but all were in the Betfred Cup.
And with the Buddies looking set to sign former fan- favourite Kirk Broadfoot, it would appear Baird has been deemed surplus to requirements – at least for now.
The news sparked a flurry of online comments from the Paisley side’s fan base with some supporting the move and others critical of the deal.
Saints gaffer Jim Goodwin says he understands the fans’ frustration but insists it’s what is best for the player that matters most.
He said: “Jack just needs to get matches.
“He was getting a bit frustrated with the lack of game time in recent weeks and the opportunity came up for him to go to Morton and get some regular first- team football. That’s what he needs.
“I understand the rivalry between the fans of both clubs but the important thing for us is that one of our good players is getting regular firstteam football. Morton were the only ones to show an interest and I gave that option to Jack and he was happy to go ahead with it.
“It’s a win- win situation for everyone. Morton are getting someone who I think will be one of the best centre- halves in the league this season and we’re getting a player game time.
“And we’ll assess the situation again in January.”
Morton are delighted to bolster their defence less than a week after Friday night’s 5-0 Championship drubbing at Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
A post on their club website said that manager David Hopkin was pleased at being able to get Baird through the doors. Motherwell’s Adam Livingstone has also joined the Cappielow outfit on loan.
Hopkin said: “I’m thrilled that we been given the opportunity to bring Jack to the club. He’s a Premiership player and he will give us more competition at the back.
“It’s been a successful day for us, bringing in both Adam and now Jack. Having players of their quality will only benefit the squad.”
Baird made his first team debut for Saints in November 2014 and has made 166 appearances.
Meanwhile, young Ethan Erhahon has teamed up with Scotland’s Under- 19 squad in Pinatar, Spain. They’ll play Japan twice, tomorrow and again on Monday as coach Billy Stark prepares his side for next month’s UEFA age- group qualifying campaign.