Tsouth MOVE FOR MY CAREER
JASON KERR wasn’t itching to end his sevenyear stay at St Johnstone.
But the double cup winning captain admits a move to England was always in his sights.
The 24-year-old defender headed south to Wigan on a £600,000 deadline day deal.
And Kerr said: “It was a really hard decision and I had to speak to a lot of people about it. But I came to the conclusion it was the best next step for my career.
“It was important for me that St Johnstone got a good fee for me. I was never going to force a move. I’m glad they got money they can use.
“I’ve always had my heart set on going down south and playing at the big grounds down there.
“I remember watching Wigan in the Premier league and winning the FA Cup when I was younger. They’re a massive club. It’s daunting but exciting.
“It wouldn’t have felt right going to another Scottish club. I couldn’t have done that to St Johnstone after all the success we’ve had.
“St Johnstone is all I’ve ever known. It’s my club.” Kerr paid tribute to Perth manager Callum Davidson for standing by him when the going got tough.
He added: “Callum has been massive for my career. There were times last season when he could have left me out – after I was sent off at St Mirren for example.
“When I came back from injury and Covid he stuck by me.”
The former Scotland Under-21 defender hopes the move south will pave the way to international recognition.
Kerr said: “Of course I’d love to play for Scotland. I don’t know if this will give me a greater chance of a call-up. Obviously I hope it does. I’ll be doing my best.”
Despite losing star midfielder Ali McCann to Preston, Kerr is confident Saints are in good shape.
He said: “There are still loads of talented players in that squad. The success we had certainly wasn’t just down to me and Ali. I’m not worried at all. I feel St Johnstone are well set for another successful season.”