Wright to give squad rest time

Perth players are being given the chance to recharge their batteries ahead of a crucial post-split schedule.

Saints are without a game this weekend due to the Scottish Cup semi-finals and manager Tommy Wright has highlighted the importance of rest and recovery.

“We’ll give them time off now,”Wright said.“I don’t see the point in having them in.

“Alan Mannus and Paul Paton have been given a week off because they’re likely to be involved with Northern Ireland at the end of May.

“At this stage of the season it’s all about recovery. We’ll work hard at the start of the week then give them a few days off. They’ll come back recharged and ready to go.

“This gives an opportunity to get the players rested and we’ll be ready to go again for the last five games.”

The Perth men were defeated 2-1 at home to Aberdeen on Saturday afternoon. Wright was pleased with the response from his side after a poor first half.

“The way we approached the start of the game was poor and it gave a good side a foothold and they controlled most of the first half,” he said.

“Having said that, Alan didn’t have a lot of saves to make. There were shots over the bar and good crosses from Jonny Hayes but apart from that we weren’t really carved open.

“Once we changed our shape and went 4-3-3 we were better.

“The positive was we got a response. Aberdeen deserved to win but with a wee bit of quality and composure we could have got a draw.”

Wright confirmed that Ally Gilchrist will continue his return from injury by playing in this week’s Development League match against Kilmarnock.