History in the making for St Johnstone?

Apr 18 2008

DEREK McInnes picked-up the Challenge Cup as St Johnstone skipper – but now his sights are set on penning an exciting new chapter in the club’s century-plus history just five months into his managerial career.

He will name his starting line-up to the players 24 hours before the Hampden kick-off and stress they have the chance to become legends.

An 18-strong squad travels for an overnight stay before Sunday’s clash with Rangers and it includes Kevin James, Martin Hardie and Daniel McBreen. Kevin Rutkiewicz and Peter MacDonald are ready but his biggest worry centres on midfielder Jody Morris, with on loan Celtic midfielder Rocco Quinn definitely sidelined by a torn hamstring.

“I don’t want to give anything away but in my mind I have a pretty firm idea of the line-up. The next game usually occupies my mind and I find it hard to switch off. But it’s only natural that a game like this is dominating my thoughts,” he said.

“We are aware St Johnstone have never reached the final of the Scottish Cup. We know what awaits the winner and no disrespect to Queen of the South – I’d feel the same if it was Aberdeen – there really is a fantastic opportunity to bring silverware to Perth.

“To win any trophy in Scotland you usually have to beat Rangers or Celtic along the way. That means beating a very powerful Rangers team and it would be the most memorable result in the club’s history. It would be a fantastic achievement.”

Rangers are coming off a wounding last-gasp Old Firm defeat which rekindled the SPL title race. And with veteran defender David Weir suspended for the cup tie after being red carded after the final whistle at Celtic Park for violent conduct, and one-time Perth loan keeper Allan McGregor likely to be sidelined by injury, Walter Smith will delve into his squad for Hampden.

McInnes took in the game and said: “We’ve not spoken much about Rangers yet. If McGregor is missing that might be a bonus because he has been outstanding for them. But we knew they would change things around anyway, regardless of injury or suspension. I’m sure Neil Alexander will be a capable deputy. But I genuinely believe we have players who can pose Rangers problems.”

McBreen got 90 minutes against Livi reserves while James had an hour. McInnes explained: “I had a chat with Kevin and Martin Hardie. Kevin felt he would benefit from a game while Martin opted to have a full week’s training. They are experienced players and I left it to them. Daniel managed to get through it and that’s to his credit.

“They won’t be fully match fit after being out for so long but it’s good to have them available. We’re giving Jody every chance of making it but he has to train Friday. Right now I’d have to say it’s in the balance. But Jody is determined and his experience and drive would be invaluable.”

On loan midfielder Liam Craig has revealed he has two offers from Scottish clubs and a contract extension being dangled by Falkirk. But yesterday Saints made it clear they would be step ping-up their at tempts to keep him in Perth when the semi-final is done and dusted.

* Don’t miss Tuesday’s PA for full photographic coverage of the on and of-field action from St Johnstone’s seventh Scottish Cup semi-final.