SAINTS WIDE AWAKE
Assistant manager Andy Kirk insists there are still “plenty” of options in the wide areas for St Johnstone following the club’s latest injury blow.
DJ Jaiyesimi was taken off with a knee injury during the 1-1 draw against Livingston on Saturday.
The on-loan Charlton Athletic attacker has suspected ligament damage and will be out for “a few weeks” with an expected return date to come following imminent test results.
“He felt it when he was trying to hook the ball on. There wasn’t a challenge,” Kirk explained.
“He went down just in front of the dugouts.
“It’s getting checked out and hopefully we’ll know more on that soon.”
One solution the former Northern Ireland international and Brechin City manager has suggested is more game time for one of Saints’ younger players, Connor Smith.
Kirk knows the 22-yearold well having watched him at Hearts and spoke highly of his, and his teammates,’ ability to play in several positions.
“It gives other players a chance,” Kirk added.
“Max [Kucheriavyi] and Connor can play either side. So can Graham [Carey] and Matty [Smith].
“We’ll be trying to get the right blend on the pitch. We’ve got plenty of players who are adaptable and Connor and Max are both young lads.
“I know Connor well. He’s a talented boy with really good ability, likes to run and is creative.
“When we get the chance to give him a longer run-out I’m confident Connor will do well for us.
“We do like adaptable players. Connor is definitely one of those.
“He’s comfortable on the side and can play off the front as well in an attacking role.
“It’s an easier challenge with players like him in the group.
“When the likes of DJ comes out of the team, it’s a case of — how do we fix it? It’s important to have options.
“Connor was at Hearts for a long, long time.
“I’m sure he would have loved to have played week in, week out there but that doesn’t always happen.
“He’s had a few loans at different places.
“Being settled here is important and knowing myself and the manager will see Connor take the next step in his career.”
Meanwhile, captain Liam Gordon was also taken off, with a head injury, and is currently being assessed.
Kirk revealed: “Gordy got cut in the first challenge and after the second there was a bit of a lump near his eye.
“We’re following concussion protocols to get the all clear.
“Having a free weekend obviously affords us a bit more time.”