NEW DEAL HAS LIAM CLOSING IN ON RECORD
LIAM CRAIG is closing in on St Johnstone’s all-time appearance record after sealing a 12-month extension.
The midfielder is just 15 games short of Steven Anderson’s 441 tally.
And 34-year-old Craig said: “That’s not something I think about but it would be special. I just want to play as many games as I can for the club and for the supporters.
“When I first came to the club the fans were probably wondering who I was. I was fortunate enough to play with Ando for most of the games. Alan Main was another I played loads of games with. And you’ve David Wotherspoon who has over 300 games.”
Craig was signed from Falkirk by Derek McInnes and lured back to Perth by Tommy Wright six years ago. His future was in the balance when the pandemic struck last year but now he plans to finish his career in Perth.
He added:“I was grateful the club previously gave me the six-month contract with everything going on.
I felt one of the fortunate ones to be given a contract.
“I’ve said it loads of times now that you just get somewhere where the fit is perfect. It’s scary to think I’ve been back six years now. That’s quite incredible.
“I take a lot of pride in still playing at this level. I’ve adapted my game over the years. I’ve had good people at St Johnstone to help and look after me.
“At times I’ve not played well but the managers have stuck by me and realised what I can bring to the team.
“When I was 20 or 21, we had a good group of senior pros here. I’m just glad that is the same now.”
Saints boss Callum Davidson welcomed Craig’s new deal.
He said: “I’m delighted to get Liam signed up. He’s shown this season why he’s still a really important player for us.
“We’re in talks with all our players. There isn’t one we’re not looking at.
“Hopefully we can start ticking players off and keep it moving forward.”