Promising Saints teenager tipped for ‘big’ future by boss Tommy Wright. Story on p53

Teenage midfielder Ali McCann has a “big future” in front of him, according to St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright.

And the Perth boss revealed that the 19-yearold is excelling in a position that isn’t even his favourite one.

“The last two matches he has started he has been excellent, growing into the games,” said Wright.

“Ali was maybe a bit apprehensive early on against Hibs but he is comfortable on the ball and he got to the tempo of the game.

“I am playing him in a deeper position and he might prefer to play a bit higher up.

“But at the minute he is the best one we have got for retaining possession, making things tick over and switching play for us.

“Once Ali gets to grips with the discipline in the role he can develop into a really good sitting midfielder.

“But he could still end up playing further forward.

“He is only 19 and he has a big future ahead of him.”

There is a balance to be struck between pride at a job well done and moving on quickly to the next challenge, Wright insisted.

He said: “I want him believing in himself but I don’t want Ali getting comfortable.

“He has to perform every week, just like any other player.”

Meanwhile Ross County hope to complete a deal to re-sign Richard Foster in time for him to face his former club Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Saturday.

Foster has been allowed to leave St Johnstone following a disagreement with boss Wright, and is expected to finalise a deal until the end of the season later today.

The 34-year-old previously spent a successful 12-month stint with the Staggies during the 2015-16 campaign when he was part of County’s League Cup winning side before leaving to join Saints.