St Johnstone's Kevin’s pledge into Saint-hood

Apr 22 2008

PROUD cup captain Kevin Rutkiewicz is set to pledge his loyalty to St Johnstone.

The Saints Player of the Year candidate has seen manager Derek McInnes tie-up Falkirk loan midfielder Liam Craig and extend the stays of Martin Hardie and Peter MacDonald.

And yesterday he made it clear he wants to be part of the manager’s ambitious plans.

Still hurting after the weekend defeat, the defender has already allowed his thoughts to wander to next season.

“We could walk away with our heads held high again but we deserved to take so much more from the game against Rangers.

“We went toe to toe with them and every player gave their all. It made life easy for me as a captain and I was proud of every one of them. There wasn’t a failure in yellow and blue.

“I watched from the stand last year when we lost to Celtic and once again it was a magnificent effort which warranted more. But the only way to remove the pain we’re all feeling is to go on and win the league next season, hitting the ground running.

“I would love to be part of it and we are at an advanced stage discussing a two year deal.

“The gaffer knows what he wants here.

“The Rangers penalty was soft but we had chances. But there is no blame attached to any individuals.

“Steven Milne and Jody Morris had the bottle to take spot-kicks in the shoot-out and we win and lose as a team.

“Hopefully the boss can convince Jody to stay because he oozes quality.

“We have got to go again and make sure we start with a bang over the first quarter next season. We have to lose the tag of gallant cup losers.

“And that means winning at less glamorous locations than Hampden Park. We have to claim our place in the SPL.

“Our fans – who were superb on Sunday – must wonder how we can take Rangers to penalties but sit third in the First Division. We have to ask ourselves the same question and nail it.”