Morton move in for Allan

May 30 2008 by Andrew Welsh

FREED Saints defender Allan McManus has agreed a deal with Morton.

The ex-Hearts and Livingston centre back is expected to formally sign on with the Perth club’s First Division rivals when his contract at McDiarmid Park runs out on Monday.

Morton’s manager, former Saints midfielder Davie Irons, said he’ll be looking to McManus to provide a guiding hand to his youthful charges.

“We felt we needed experience at the back,” declared Irons yesterday.

“Allan knows the First Division and he can help the younger players.”

McManus (33) has been tied up by ‘Ton for two years, and becomes Irons’ fourth signing since the end of last season.

He joins Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu, goalkeeper Colin Stewart and midfielder Steven Masterton at Cappielow.

The no-nonsense stopper started 38 first team games for the McDiarmid men last season, the fourth highest tally behind Gary Irvine, Paul Sheerin and Alan Main.

However, he was told by boss Derek McInnes in April that he would be surplus to requirements next season.

“Allan knew the situation and he goes with our best wishes,” said the Saints manager.

“He has been a good servant to the club.”

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ANYONE wanting to buy a St Johnstone season ticket by direct debit is reminded that the cut-off point is this weekend.

Fans seeking to take advantage of discounted prices for next season can still take advantage of the club’s scheme before the end of June.

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ST JOHNSTONE will face a tough opening fixture when the new season eventually comes around.

Derek McInnes’ men were yesterday handed a potentially hazardous trip to Second Division champions Ross County in the Hampden draw for the first round of the Challenge Cup.

Saints, who are the cup holders, will travel north to Victoria Park in Dingwall to take on Derek Adams’ side on Saturday, July 26.