New Saint misses England friendly

May 27 2008 by Gordon Bannerman

COLLIN Samuel and ex-Saint Jason Scotland have both missed out on a chance to face England in a glamorous June 1 friendly.

Trinidad and Tobago boss Francisco Maturna has opted to give various locally based players a chance to pit their wits against the English in the Hasely Crawford Stadium.

Only 10 overseas pros feature in the latest Socca Warriors squad.

New St Johnstone signing Samuel, lured from Toronto by manager Derek McInnes, featured in the Germany 2006 World Cup campaign while Scotland, who scored 24 goals for title winners Swansea last term, was also blacklisted over a bonus row involving 16 players.

That dispute has now been settled and both attackers are back in favour with the authorities.

But they have not been included in the 26-man squad for the England match.

lWITH excitement already beginning to build in advance of next season, St Johnstone fans planning to pay for their season ticket by direct debit are reminded forms must be completed and returned to McDiarmid Park by the May 31 deadline.

With manager Derek McInnes strengthening his squad in the weeks since the curtain came down on last term, the club are hoping season ticket ranks will be swollen on the back of ongoing investment in the team.

lMCDIARMID plays host to a vital UEFA European Women’s qualification match tomorrow.

The match with the Ukraine starts at 7.30pm. It’s a cash gate priced £5 for adults and £2 for juveniles and concessions.

lBRECHIN City manager Michael O’Neill is keen to take St Johnstone youngster Steven Doris to Glebe Park on loan.

The 20-year-old Perth attacker made an impact after being farmed out to Third Division Montrose last term.

He helped take the Angus club, bossed by ex-Saint Jim Weir, to the play-offs.

Montrose are keen to extend his stay but now O’Neill is monitoring the situation and is ready to sound out Perth manager Derek McInnes about a loan deal.