Two Legends Depart

Michael O'Halloran reflects on his time at Saints: 

“I originally came in 2014. I remember Tommy had tried to get me in the summer before that on loan, I was keen at that point to join. For whatever reason it never happened. When the opportunity came in the January, I had a great conversation with Tommy and I just felt straight away it would be a brilliant place to go. Sometimes you just get a feeling about a club and It turned out to be true since we won the Scottish Cup in the next couple of month!

“It was such a good changing room when I arrived. I was one of the younger boys at the time and I could see straight away it was such a hard working and motivated group of lads. I think you saw that in our performances, we were resolute and together as a team. For me it was the perfect move coming back home and at the time I felt St Johnstone was the perfect club for me. 

“I used to car share with Chris Millar, Brian Easton and Gary Miller when I first arrived. They were brilliant with me, travelling everyday together really helped me settle in.

“I wouldn’t even say that Rangers game away from home was my best performance in a Saints shirt. It was an enjoyable game and a memorable night, but there was so many like that. I understand why folk always say that one as they were unbeaten at the time and we battered them, we didn’t just beat them.

“I definitely think there are better ones than the one at Ibrox, I just couldn’t single one out.”

“I played in some memorable European games during my time at Saints, they always stand out for me. There were a few disappointing ones in there too, ones I felt like we should have won, I look back on some of them and think, we really should have gone through. However, I don't regret them either, they were unforgettable nights.

"Galatasaray especially stands out, to go and play against a team with such a huge European pedigree was an incredible experience. Their fans were extremely loud but the thing I remember most was the heat, it was boiling.

"I always wear long sleeve shirts as it was just a superstition i had, but I remember at half time saying to Murray Davidson that I had to change as I felt like a couldn’t breathe. I think he kept his on for the full game which was a mental decision.

“To get a result over in Turkey, considering the international level quality that they had, was just fantastic. Big Jason Kerr bobbled a penalty into the bottom corner, so that sent us away happy.

“If there was one week that I could go back to re-live during my time at Saints it would be the 2014 Scottish Cup. We got to celebrate with the fans after the game and do the open bus parade the day after. I will never forget those memories.

“Even the week leading up to it, Tommy took us all to Dunkeld for some down time and to get away from everything. We done some clay pigeon shooting and relaxed before a hard weeks training. I think it just chilled us out and took our minds off the match.

“The fans for me were incredible during my time at Saints and the relationship I had with them is why I came back twice, I always missed it.

"I just want to say thank you to the fans, I appreciate all the support they have given me over the years I have been there and good luck to them.

"I would also like to thank the staff that I have worked with along the way.

"I played with Steven MacLean and now he is in charge, I wish him every success.

"Liam Craig is doing incredible with the U18s alongside Alec Cleland.

"There are so many good people behind the scenes, I wish them all the best.

"I will always keep an eye out for St Johnstone, I have a massive soft spot in my heart for them and hopefully I can come back at some point."

David Wotherspoon also reflected on his time at Saints: 

“After 10 magnificent years playing at the club I grew up supporting, my time has come to an end,” said Wotherspoon.

“The memories created throughout my time at St Johnstone have been incredible and will never be forgotten.

“Firstly I’d like to thank the players I have had the pleasure of sharing a dressing-room with.

“Such a great group of lads who have supported and shown me great friendships.

“To the managers I have had, the pleasure of working under and had so much success with – thank you for giving me the chance to play for the team I love!

“To the backroom staff and other staff members that work in the club who have helped me over the years, I am truly grateful for everything you have done for me.

“A big thank you and love to my wife and kids for their support over the 10 years. It’s been so hard on them but they were always there for me through the highs and the lows.

“My biggest thankyou is to YOU, the fans.

“The amount of messages and posts I have received over these past two days has been overwhelming and I want to thank you for supporting me and allowing me to play for the team we all love.

“It’s hard for me to put into words what this club means to me as a fan and a player. It will always have a place in my heart.”