Clark happy with new-look Saints squad after poor start to season

Keeper says they have to take positive mindset to Pittodrie

St Johnstone keeper Zander Clark is hoping Saturday’s game against Aberdeen will mark a new beginning for the Perth side.

Saints have not had their troubles to seek at the start of this campaign after an early exit from the Betfred Cup and then taking just two points from their opening four league games to leave them sitting bottom of the Premiership table.

However, Clark believes the squad is now in much better shape following the recent arrivals of Stevie May, Jason Holt and Anthony Ralston.

Add in the return of Drey Wright from injury and the big goalie is feeling confident St Johnstone will soon be back to winning ways once again, hopefully starting against the Dons.

The 27-year-old said: “It will be a difficult game but we have had some good results there in the past.

“It is never easy but we have to go to Pittodrie with a positive mindset. We will be raring to go.

“It was been a disappointing start to the season, going out of the cup and losing heavily to Celtic, but we have picked up points after being behind to Livingston and Hibs so the character is there in the squad. We just have to cut out the daft errors and preventable goals.”

Clark added: “There’s probably a more complete look to the squad after the business done by the gaffer and chairman on deadline day. We have brought in quality players.

“It’s a big boost bringing Mayso back and getting Tony and Jason.

“Drey’s comeback against Killie was also a big plus for us.

“Tony is young but he has made the step up into the Celtic first-team squad. He’s not a rookie, he’s played Champions League games and done well.

“Jason has played a lot of football so he brings lots of experience.

“I have played against him a few times. I always liked watching him, even when he was at Hearts.

“He has great talent. Jason is a very good technical player and finds space in the box.

“There is a more complete look to the squad now and in many ways this is a fresh start for us, a new beginning.

“We want to get going with the new boys, kick on and get wins on the board.”

He may only be 27 but Clark is now the senior citizen in Saints’ defence, something that comes with added responsibility.

He said: “I’m the last line so I have always looked to organise a defence in front of me.

“I felt I always had a say even when there were more experienced boys in there. It is part and parcel of being a goalkeeper. You need to be vocal.

“I’m the oldest one in the backline now. There is maybe more onus on me but I have worked with very good goalkeepers in my time here and I can call on that experience.”

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I always liked watching Jason, even when he was at Hearts. He has great talent. ZANDER CLARK

Recent arrival Jason Holt has his sights set on helping St Johnstone get back to winning ways.