Mannus praises the Perth fans

St Johnstone goalkeeper Alan Mannus has praised the fans for their support after signing a new one year deal at McDiarmid Park.

The Northern Irish internationalist has clocked up 203 games in a Perth jersey and signing a fresh contract was always a priority.

“I didn’t want to go elsewhere so when they spoke to me about staying it’s all I wanted to do,”the 35-year-old said.

“I feel I was able to contribute to a season where we did really well again. I’m fortunate to be part of this club and to play here in my career. Why would I want to go anywhere else?

“The club has been brilliant towards me. I didn’t expect to get treated as well as I have done by the club but even more so by the supporters.

“Things fans say to me in person or by singing my name at games, it’s very special to me.

“I’m surprised how well I’ve been treated even this year when I’ve not been involved in games, I’ve had supporters saying things to me that helped keep me positive.“

Saints will experience more European football this summer for the fifth time in six years - and Mannus knows the magnitude of the achievement.

He said:“Getting into Europe again means a lot to the team, the supporters and the club. It makes going into next season that bit more interesting.

“My biggest memories of being at the club have been the European games like Rosenborg away and home, and the Luzern matches.

“It’s quite an achievement to be involved again and it’s something to look forward to.”

Mannus and midfielder Paul Paton are on international duty next week with Northern Ireland. They play a friendly against New Zealand on June 2 before a World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan on June 10.