Irish ace fixed on Perth radar

Feb 13 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

FORMER Falkirk striker Graham Barrett trained with Saints yesterday 24 hours after scoring against the Scotland U21s.

The 27-year-old Republic of Ireland international, whose career began as a teenager at Arsenal, parted company with the Bairns last month after 19 appearances this term.

McDiarmid manager Derek McInnes was keen to take another look at the attacker but Saints were forced indoors at Kilgraston as the snows swamped Perth.

McInnes has five strikers on board but could be tempted to follow-up the initial interest.

He said: “Getting a striker in isn’t a priority. But Graham is a free agent and I’m always interested in any quality player. He’s a player I’ve always liked.

“We brought him in for the game against the Scotland U21s to have a look at him. That’s all it is at the moment.

“He had his injury problems in the past but he’s fully fit and has been playing regularly. Graham is training with us again and we’ll see where it goes.”

The First Division leaders face Livingston tomorrow and it’s their first home league fixture since Clyde were in town on December 27. Third placed Livi will miss striker Leigh Griffiths, who is banned.

With other games set to fall victim to the weather it’s a chance for Saints to cash in.

Saints top scorer Stevie Milne returns to the squad after a hamstring injury and Liam Craig is set for his 50th appearance.

Milne didn’t feature against the U21s, when two late goals posted a 2-1 win for Billy Stark’s kids, but is available again as Saints prepare for two games which could see them emulate the club’s all-time 19-game undefeated record.

McInnes welcomed the chance to give players a run-out against the young Scots, with the weather trashing reserve games.

“Martin Hardie got 80 minutes and guys like Graham Gartland, Steven Anderson, Peter MacDonald and Kevin Moon got the full game.

“It was of real benefit to the players.”

Saints have posted draws in their last three games and the tally now is seven from nine. But McInnes was quick to point out his players have been on the road.

“It’s great to get another home game at last. It seems a long time since Clyde were here,” said McInnes.

“We have picked up three points at games away from home and now it’s vital we make our home form count by beating Livi.

“I’m really relaxed about the situation and have total confidence in the players. There’s a lot being made about the draws but they have been at difficult venues.”

That view was echoed by PA Sport/George Wimpey player of the month Gary Irvine.

The full-back said: “We have to make sure we take care of our home games. We’re all looking forward to playing again at McDiarmid.

“We have taken points against strong teams with good home records. We are top of the league and hopefully we can push on now.”

Irvine insists the Perth players are at ease with leading the way, noting it’s more enjoyable topping the table than playing catch-up.

“I’m really enjoying my football and so is everyone else. We’re the team everyone wants to catch.

“The last couple of seasons we’ve been sitting second, third or fourth at this stage. I’d rather be in this position. Teams are after us and that keeps you on your toes. And the fans like to see their team top.”

Irvine is equally at home as a full-back or wing-back, recalling: “From the age of 16 when I went full-time at Celtic I was playing as a wing-back. Martin O’Neill wanted all his teams to play 3-5-2.

“I love getting forward but the last goal I scored was for the Celtic U19s and that was a total fluke! If I do ever score for Saints I know I’ll overdo the celebrations!”