Danny’s swansong hailed by Saints boss Tommy

ST JOHNSTONE manager Tommy Wright revealed he almost denied Danny Swanson his farewell appearance but was rewarded for his change of heart as the Hibs-bound midfielder set up the only goal against Hearts at McDiarmid Park.

Wright was set to rest the former Hearts midfielder after feeling he had put in a major effort in Saturday’s win over Partick Thistle, which sealed fourth place in the Premiership.

However, Swanson who, like David Wotherspoon, is suspended for Sunday’s visit of Rangers, was keen to play and his brilliant through-ball set up the lively Chris Kane to net in the 26th minute.

Wright said: “I was toying with the idea of not playing him but I heard he wanted to walk out with his kid before the game, so I realised how much this club means to him. So we played him.

“Danny has been brilliant for me and he goes from us with my good wishes.”

The win took Saints to a record 58-point haul in the Premiership.

“It’s another little milestone for us which is pleasing,” Wright said. “We made changes but the ability to win a game is still there to be seen. We had many moments where we could have got a second goal.

“Goalkeeper Alan Mannus has done well for us again and we defended well when we had to. I thought we were excellent, especially first half in how we passed the ball.

“It’s another good victory and shows, without a doubt, we are the fourth-best team in the league.”

Hearts head coach Ian Cathro said: “First half I thought we were comfortable, we became passive, lacked intensity, lacked real pressure, lacked real aggression. Second half we were better.”

Craig Wighton