Davidson impressed by Saints starlet
St Johnstone fans have seen few glimpses of him until this point.
But new manager Callum Davidson admits he has been mightily impressed with the pre-season efforts of young striker John Robertson.
The 18-year-old, who spent time on loan at Cove Rangers last term, was handed a start in Wednesday’s 0-0 pre-season friendly draw with Hibernian at McDiarmid Park.
Davidson said: “Young John has come back and has worked really hard. I have been really impressed with him.
“He has that eye for goal. For John, it’s about having the willingness to learn and listen.
“He is a player who has probably impressed me the most out of all the young players. It’s up to him how much he wants to move forward.
“John has always been a goalscorer but he needs to work on his positional play. His fitness has improved a lot.
“Once he gets his chance in the first team, he’ll have to take it.
“Sometimes the penny drops with them. I’m always saying to the players about professionalism and that they are a professional for a reason.
“You need to have a good attitude and, if you don’t, you are not going to make it.”
Also getting a run-out in what was the first game since returning from the coronavirus outbreak were new loan signings Danny McNamara (21), a full-back, and striker Isaac Olaofe (20).
The Millwall youngsters, who worked with Davidson at the English Championship club, arrive in Perth to challenge for first-team places.
“For the first game of pre-season it was a real competitive one,” said the Saints boss.
“Sometimes you want a game against lower-level opposition to start, but I think both teams got a lot out of it.
“The tempo was really good, especially for the first 65 or 70 minutes. I was really happy and thought all the lads applied themselves well.
“It was a good introduction for Danny and Isaac. The quicker I can get them integrated into the squad the better.
“They are here to push for starting places. Competition for places is vital. Both Danny and Isaac will bring enthusiasm and youthful energy.
“I know they have the right attitude. They are up here to prove themselves as well.”
Davidson confirmed former Scotland international Craig Conway is training with the club.
“We’re having a look at him and hopefully he will get some gametime,” Davidson explained.
“He has a wealth of experience and has played at a high level for a long time. I think he would be a good addition to help the younger players as well.
“The older players are important to the development of your team.
“When you get to a certain age you need to start helping the younger players, as long as your own performance doesn’t suffer.
“The squad is looking a lot stronger and I’m working with the chairman and Kirsten Robertson behind the scenes to make things happen.”