TROUBLED SAINTS BRING IN EXPERT HELP

ST MIRREN have moved to tackle their coronavirus problems by making two expert appointments. Sportsmail revealed on Saturday that the SPFL were preparing to throw the book at the Paisley club over an apparent breakdown in Covid-19 protocols. The postponement of their weekend fixture against Hamilton came after the club’s fourth brush with the virus this season and followed their previous fixture against Motherwell being called off just hours before kick-off. A twin investigation is underway amid allegations of social-distancing breaches involving player car-sharing, coach journeys and squad meals. As Saints are left to sweat on serious disciplinary action being taken by the league, chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick has taken action to try and strengthen the club’s approach to Covid-19. Former Scottish Police Federation chairman Brian Docherty has been appointed as safeguarding and quality manager, while risk management expert Dr Kevin Pollock will review and enhance the club’s internal processes. ‘The postponement of our two games following positive tests amongst playing staff was disappointing,’ said Fitzpatrick. ‘Everyone associated with the club has a paramount duty to do whatever it takes to make sure we absolutely minimise the risk of any infection. That’s why we have appointed Brian and Kevin, both of whom have close and longstanding links to the club, to help us tackle this continued very real risk to society and our club. Every single member of staff at the club, at all levels, knows that our approach to this challenge has to be as professional and robust as possible.’ While the SPFL will welcome the appointments, they are not expected to impact on the investigations underway. A formal decision on whether to open disciplinary proceedings could follow later this week or next week. League rules state games can go ahead if a club has 13 available players, including at least one goalkeeper. However, after another three players and one member of coaching staff tested positive last Thursday, St Mirren informed the SPFL they had just 11 fit players to face Accies after Public Health Scotland placed the entire first-team and coaching staff in isolation.