Long term ties

Oct 12 2007

OWEN Coyle yesterday tied-up highly regarded defender Steven Anderson on a two-year extension.

And the St Johnstone manager expects the 21-year-old to carve an impressive career in the game.

Securing Anderson underlines that Coyle has a short and longer term strategy for the Perth club.

He said: “I'm delighted Steven has agreed this extension. He is young and there is a lot more to come from him.

“I believe we can take his game to another level. Steven has to show ambition to do just that. He was my U21 captain at Dundee United when he was only 17.

“He is a former youth international with enormous potential, although there were different opinions about his best position.”

Coyle insists Anderson could easily have coped with a step-up into the U21 Scotland scene after making an impression at youth level.

“He will turn 22 in December but Steven is concentrating on St Johnstone. If he does that everything will fall into place for him.

“There are areas of his game he can improve on and that includes being more vocal out on the park. He has to show he can be a leader. I want 11 captains out there.”

This term, Anderson has built on experience gained across the back four and while James has been injured, he's currently forcing Rutkiewicz to be patient.

The defender told PA Sport he's desperate to step up onto the SPL stage with Saints.

He said: “I was on the bench in a cup tie at United but never experienced SPL football. That has to be the ambition. We came close last season and the highlight of my career so far was the cup semi-final with Celtic.

“I'd love to experience that on a regular basis. Hopefully that can drive us on to win the league.”

Anderson paid tribute to boss Coyle, his defensive colleagues and former coach Jim Weir for advancing his career.

He explained: “Before going to Montrose, Jim would give me one on one training after the team sessions. I learned a lot from him.

“The gaffer knew me from Tannadice and he has given me games to gain experience and boost my confidence.

“I got the chance of first team football under John Connolly but that was usually at right back. I've played right and left back but I feel most comfortable in central defence.

“I'm glad to get my future settled because you worry how things will go. This comes on the back of a one year deal in the summer so I must be doing something right.

“I have been getting regular games and this gives me some security.”

Coyle also revealed that midfielder Martin Hardie had visited a specialist and the club is awaiting a report. He has been plagued by a groin problem this season and that has curtailed his contribution.

“Martin had the scan and there was nothing major to worry about. We'll see where he goes from here after resting-up. I wouldn't expect him to be back for a few weeks,” said Coyle.

David Weatherston could train next week after his ankle injury and first team fringe players will feature in today's Forfarshire Cup clash with Dundee United at Tannadice (kick-off 2pm).

Peter MacDonald will get a start to enhance his match fitness and Jamie McCluskey is also ready after an ankle knock.