Saints boss takes coaching to Europe

Jun 16 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

DEREK McINNES has joined a clutch of managers and coaches following the Euro U21 Championships in Sweden as part of their UEFA pro licence.

McInnes revealed he takes in clashes including Spain-Germany, Italy-Serbia, Spain-England and Sweden-Italy.

“It’s all part of the coaching badge. It will be interesting covering a major championship like this.

“It is intensive, as it should be, with various Powerpoint presentations.

“But I can’t see me finding a player for Saints. The Premiership clubs have three and four scouts over here looking for talent.”

Among the familiar faces Derek has teamed-up with are ex-Saints assistant Sandy Stewart, now enjoying success at Burnley with Owen Coyle.

McInnes is keeping a close eye on the home front, with the SPL fixtures being unveiled tomorrow.

SAINTS are set for a pre-season trip to Northern Ireland and former manager Owen Coyle brings his Burnley team back to Perth in a repeat of last year’s challenge match.

The club stress the dates remain provisional.

The clash with Premiership newcomers Burnley is at Perth on August 8.

On July 20 Saints are away to Ayr United, on the 22nd they face Distillery and on the 24th they provide the opposition for one-time Saints winger Gerry McMahon’s testimonial at Glenavon. They are away to Cowdenbeath on July 28.

There are also closed doors games fixed-up with Norwich and Queen’s Park.

The plan is also to attract top class English opposition for a 125th anniversary clash at some stage.