St Johnstone manager warns of physical challenge against St Mirren
The newly promoted Saints face a tough test against a St Mirren side that has impressed with its tactical identity and strong start to the season.
St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari has issued a stark warning ahead of the club’s upcoming Scottish Premiership fixture against St Mirren, anticipating a physically demanding contest. Valakari stated that the visitors, managed by Craig McLeish, intend to “bully” his side, citing the club’s “old DNA” of being “very, very tough.”
The manager noted that St Mirren have “gone under the radar” this season despite a strong start to the campaign. This assessment follows a 2-0 victory over Falkirk in the Premiership opener, a result that highlighted the visitors' solid performance against last season’s surprise package.
Valakari, whose St Johnstone side was promoted back to the Premiership after last season’s relegation, praised St Mirren’s clear tactical identity. He pointed to their success in the League Cup, where they won three of four group stage games, scoring 12 goals to secure progression while looking to defend their title.
“I’ve been very impressed,” Valakari said. “How I see the situation, they had a very difficult last season. They survived through the play-offs. They have been able to work on their game. I can see what they try to do.”
The manager described the upcoming home fixture as both a “tough challenge” and an “exciting challenge” for St Johnstone. He observed that St Mirren’s ability to hold possession and execute dangerous vertical runs was evident in their pre-season and the Falkirk match, noting that the visitors are building momentum as they look to maintain their early-season form.
