Tanser in need of more self-belief, says Wright

Saints: Defender tipped to make belated impact at McDiarmid after Easton is sidelined

Scott Tanser doesn’t realise his own potential, according to St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright.

The left-back has impressed the Perth boss when he has deputised for first team regular Brian Easton and, with a bit more self-belief, the Englishman can make an even bigger impact at McDiarmid Park.

Easton’s knee injury will give Tanser a run of games for the first time since his arrival in the summer and Wright has backed him to seize his opportunity.

“Scott came in against Celtic and proved how good he can be,” he said.

“He was up against James Forrest, who is one of the best wingers in the country, and I felt he did well against him so he showed he’s more than capable.

“What Scott needs to do is believe in himself more. It’s not that he lacks confidence. It’s just he’s quite a quiet boy but he’s growing into things here.

“I’m not sure he realises how good he is or how good he can be.

“He has all the attributes. He’s quick, decent on the ball and a good defender.

“I also think he’s very good going forward and that’s the part of his game I think he can really kick on with.

“It will come with playing games and he will get that opportunity now because of Brian Easton’s injury.

“He has good delivery so we want him to get forward as much as he can because I think he can be an important player for us. He’s got an opportunity to progress now and stake a real claim for the shirt.”

A good example to Tanser of taking your chance when it comes can be seen on the other side of the Saints defence, where Aaron Comrie is the current first pick.

Wright said: “The young lads have done very well. I have been really pleased with Aaron Comrie. Liam Gordon was excellent against Hearts and would have stayed in if he didn’t get injured, and Jason Kerr is playing well on loan to Queen of the South.

“The squad is changing, it has to because the years go on and that’s the way the game is. We have been bringing through younger players and that’s something we as a club have put a lot of effort into over the last few years.”

Scott came in against Celtic and proved how good he can be. TOMMY WRIGHT