Young striker leaves impression on Saints manager after debut

Wright admits high hopes for John Robertson

St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright has “high hopes” for teenage striker John Robertson.

But, after making his debut off the bench as a late substitute at Dens Park on Saturday, the 16-year-old’s progression will not be rushed.

“It was only a cameo but he made an impression,” said Wright.

“John is another young player we have high hopes for. He is certainly one for the future.

“John appeared in the squad for the Dundee game because of the injuries we have suffered and I will be upfront about that.

“But he trained all week with the first team, that didn’t faze him at all and he is a confident young lad.

“So far in his career he has always scored lots of goals.

“John is someone who will be eased into the first team squad. We will nurture him. We have to look after our kids and manage their development.”

January signing David McMillan made his comeback from injury in Monday night’s development game against Dundee United.

The Irishman hasn’t played since getting injured on his debut three months ago.

McMillan came off after half an hour, as planned, and was replaced by another Saints striker on the comeback trail, Callum Hendry.

Wright said: “It was great to have them back getting some match practice.

“They’ll be included in the under-20s squad again on Thursday and hopefully they’ll increase their playing time and get more minutes.

“This weekend is probably too soon for them to be included in the first team squad but we’ll see where they are by the end of the week and assess them.

“I think next week is a more realistic time to get them back in the fold.”

He trained all week with the first team, that didn’t faze him at all and he is a confident young lad. TOMMY WRIGHT

Picture: Graeme Hart. John Robertson comes up against Kevin Holt of Dundee.