Main’s anxious wait for testimonial all-clear

Jul 23 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

TESTIMONIAL man Alan Main faces a race against time to line-up against Manchester United.

But it’s a big day for St Johnstone’s record appearance holder and he’s determined to face the Red Devils on July 31 and say farewell to Perth fans.

It’s pay at the gate and Derek McInnes has cut short the club’s Irish trip to accommodate the glamour game.

Injured late in his final season with the Perth club, the veteran goalie has been keeping himself fit but protecting the thumb injury which required surgery back in May.

Main (42) is even ready to don a special glove to give him added protection as he prepares to keep the Old Trafford XI at bay next weekend.

“Maybe I’m being over cautious but I don’t want to risk damaging the thumb long-term. It was in a right state, with the ligaments torn and the bone chipped,” he said yesterday.

“I will have it strapped-up and I certainly don’t want to miss my own testimonial game. The glove will have special webbing. If it was a damaged finger I would have no qualms but this is more serious.

“But it will be a great day at McDiarmid, with Saints and several new players at home for the first game since the end of last season. And whatever team Manchester United put out it will have star quality, you can be sure of that.

“Hopefully there will be a mix of youth and experience.”

Main is still hoping to secure a new club, but admits patience isn’t his strong suit.

He said: “The injury came at the wrong time and clubs are cutting back on squads because of the financial climate. But hopefully a First Division club looking for a keeper and a goalkeeping coach will come in for me.”