Update From The Manager

Following a short break over the summer Saints Online spoke to manager Steven MacLean about his pro licence course, international call-ups, pre-season friendlies and his plans for the coming season.

"We had 3 days at Norton House with different speakers, it was a great experience learning from them all. It varied with types of situations you might find yourself in as a manager, I feel like it is good to always try and take information away from any football situation you find yourself in.

"Firstly, I am delighted to have re-signed Chris Kane, he will be like a new signing.

"We had a big turnover in players so there is room for new arrivals, but they have to be the right fit for the team. We don't want to rush and sign the wrong player, but we are always looking and trying to strengthen the squad.

"Overall, we have a great nucleus of a squad, but we do have to add a few. If we can add the right ones, then hopefully we can have a really successful season.

"We had a big squad last year and I don't want to run with the same numbers this time around. I am looking for quality, rather than quantity.

"I am delighted that Dan was called up to play in the Gold Cup for Trinidad & Tobago.

"When any of our players are selected for international duty it not only reflects greatly on the Club, but hopefully it can improve them as players as well.

"I think if you look right across our team we have international quality in all areas. Max is a Ukrainian U21 player, Ross Sinclair was a Scotland U21 player, Andy Considine has played for Scotland. If you throw them in alongside Dan Phillips, it is clear to see.

"We have a great batch of young players coming through who should be looking to also go and achieve international recognition at all levels.

"I will be using the friendlies to make sure we are ready for the League Cup. Some people might see the League Cup still as pre-season friendlies with the timing of it. I can assure you I want to not only do well, but finish top of that group, simple as that.

"We want 4 wins and good performances, so the friendlies will play a key part in making sure we are ready to achieve that.

"No matter what we do or who we play, we play to win. We will be positive and enjoy the process, but we will be playing to win.

"Ayr had a great season last year so we know that will be a tough match. I am good friends with Lee Bullen, so it will be good to see him.

"Stirling also had a great season after winning promotion.

"We are familiar with Stenhousemuir as we know Gary Naismith and his assistant Brown Ferguson really well. Brown came on my pro-licence for a few days so again it will be good to see him.

"Alloa will also prove a difficult tie with Brian Rice taking charge of them, he always sets his sides up well.

"Going into this season I want to make sure we play high energy football. I want my side to always play on the front foot and to always play to win, no matter what.

"I think you will see we need to be adaptable as well, so we might adopt different systems to achieve my goals.

"This is why pre-season and the friendlies will be important, they will allow me time to implement these plans.

"The same principles and non-negotiables will be driven home to my players when they come back, the same way I did when I stepped into the role.

"You must play for your teammates, work hard, show a great attitude and play for the Club.

"The one thing I can say is that I am looking forward to it and I am sure the players will be too. I can't wait to get started on Thursday."