Wright ‘confident’ of adding to his squad

Tommy Wright admits he was surprised when transfer target Kane Hemmings penned a three-year deal with Dundee.

The St Johnstone manager, who had already seen a deal for Aberdeen attacker Stevie May break down, had been in talks designed to take the former Dark Blues striker on loan from Notts County.

“We were linked with Hemmings and we are probably getting stick for missing out to Dundee and a club in the Championship,” said Wright.

“But historically they do pay higher wages than us and we were only ever talking about a loan deal with Notts County, the player and his agent.

“That suited all parties and it seemed to be going well.

“We didn’t get an opportunity to discuss a permanent deal.

“The chairman (Steve Brown) did his best but maybe the player always fancied going back to Dundee.

“We have various targets. Stevie May and Kane Hemmings weren’t the only ones on the list.

“Unfortunately, there won’t be anyone in for the weekend but I am confident we will have players in before the window closes.

“The chairman and I are working hard to make something happen. So fans have to be patient.”

Wright is confident his players will bounce back from the 7-0 opening day loss to Celtic.

“The mood has picked up as the week has progressed,” he said.

“The players are hurting. It has been a disappointing start to the season and we can’t hide from it.

“We are fair game at the minute and we just have take it on the chin and be better. But we were excellent against Ross County at home in the Betfred Cup.

“I am expecting a positive reaction and hopefully the fans get right behind the team.

“The quality is there to have another good season and I am confident there will be players added.”