THE January transfer window can make or break a team’s season.
A new striker can breathe a lease of life into a struggling attack (think Robbie Keane to Celtic in 2010). A strong defender can solidify a team at the back (think Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool in 2018).
McDiarmid Park, home of St Johnstone[/caption]
Will Simo Valakari right the ship in Perth?[/caption]
Whether a team is challenging for the league, chasing European football or trying to avoid relegation, bad moves in the winter window can have drastic consequences.
St Johnstone are bottom of the Premiership standings at the moment, eight points adrift of Hearts and the club’s directors have made it clear: it is NOT acceptable.
They have vowed to support recently-installed boss Simo Valakari however and have pledged funds towards a January spending spree.
In a surprise statement, the McDiarmid Park board revealed that discussions are already underway with several potential new signings.
However, they say the targets they have identified are also being pursued by other clubs.
In a statement released this evening, the board of directors said: “Dear supporters,
“There is no sense in sugarcoating it: the recent results have been disappointing. While we, like you, are extremely frustrated by this, we want to assure you that no one at the club has given up on the season.
“Led by Simo and Gus, the football department is working relentlessly to improve the squad during this transfer window. We have earmarked funds to be spent on strengthening the team and that figure has increased further with recent loan terminations.
“Simo and Gus have held productive discussions with numerous skilled and dynamic players, who we believe will contribute to both this season and future campaigns. We are excited to strengthen our squad further.
“As soon as we are able, we will share further details of other transfers. However, it is important to note that we are not the only club pursuing these players. While the process may seem slower than we’d like, please know that it remains our top priority.
“Simo and our players have our full support. They are training hard, giving everything to turn our fortunes around.
“Additionally, CEO and interim chairman, Francis Smith, alongside all the dedicated staff at McDiarmid Park, are working tirelessly to improve the club’s business operations, ensuring we generate the revenue necessary to continue bringing in the talent we need – now and in the future.
“Lastly, we want to express our deepest gratitude to you, our supporters. Your time, attention, financial investment and energy mean the world to us. The passion and dedication you show, even in difficult times, does not go unnoticed. You are the lifeblood of St Johnstone FC and we are immensely thankful for your unwavering support.
“We are a proud, family-oriented club and, like any family, we are at our strongest when united in pursuit of the same goal. Right now, that goal is simple: getting back to winning games on the pitch.
“Rest assured, everyone on the board and at the club shares this objective. Each of us has a role to play and together we have a great chance of climbing the table.
“Thank you again for your continued support.”
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
