The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Anderson honoured to wear Saints armband
Steven Anderson was handed the St Johnstone captain’s armband despite body-swerving an X-Factor dressing room audition.
The Perth defender was identified by manager Tommy Wright to succeed Dave Mackay, when the Scottish Cup winner was forced to call it a day after two hip operations.
Contenders for the post made their bids in a fun election teed-up by Wright.
And vice-captain Brian Easton won by a landslide.
But the Saints boss had already made up his mind that long-serving defender Anderson was the man for the job.
Anderson revealed: “I was a bit shocked when the manager asked me to take over from Dave. I hadn’t really thought about it. When the gaffer asked me to take it on I didn’t have to think too long about it. I’ve been here a long time now.
“The dressing room vote was just was a bit of banter from the gaffer. I didn’t pitch for it. It was good fun. Easty was brilliant, offering nights out and Mondays off. Even I voted for him!
“Obviously it’s an honour but it won’t really change much for me. I have a few extra duties but on the pitch we have plenty of leaders.
“We have experienced guys who know what is expected of us. I like a moan anyway and I’m not alone in this team.
“Paul Paton captained Dundee United, Liam Craig was skipper Hibs. Tam Scobbie is vocal as well, like Steven MacLean. Chris Millar is another one. We have captains all over the place.
“But Dave is a hard act to follow, that’s for sure. He’s one of the most consistent players I have ever played with. Hopefully I can follow that example.
“I have had a few good captains here in my time, going back to Jim Weir and Kevin Rutkiewicz. Jody Morris is another who stands out for me. He had played at the top level with Chelsea.”