Stiker’s recovery time will be put to good use

Injury-hit frontman David Clarkson insists he has put his time on the sidelines to good use.

Clarkson suffered a careerthreatening cruciate knee ligament injury in a training accident back in February, but says he will not stand still while it heals.

Doctors told the 31-year-old that he could be out for up to a year,but, with the club keeping faith in him, the former Motherwell man is looking to help out in any way he can.

“The club have looked after me,” he said.

“I’m potentially going to do some work behind the scenes and watch opponents’ games to do some reporting and stuff.

“I’ve done my UEFA A Licence, so that ties in with that.”

And, with veteran defender Andy Webster announced as the Saints new under-20s coach, Clarkson says he is keen to help out wherever he can.

He explained: “I do some work with the Motherwell under-15s just now and I think that’s the road I want to go down.

“I’d love to do some work with the under-20s here if that came about. I’d love to try and pass on some experience and tips.”

At 31, Clarkson could have been forgiven for thinking he was at the end of the line with St Mirren when injury struck, but gaffer Jack Ross stuck his neck out for him, insisting he be kept around.

Clarkson is grateful to the club for their backing.

He said: “The club have been brilliant and I spoke to Tony and the chairman to thank them.

“It wasn’t ideal with my contract being up.

“It was a worrying time for me, but, thankfully, the club have looked after me.

“I want to help out as much as I can.

“I would love to be playing, but, as long as I’m here, I will try and help out with anything I am asked to do.”