St Johnstone V Celtic at McDiarmid Park : Match Preview

19 August 2016 17:34
St Johnstone V Celtic - view commentary, squad, and statistics of the game live.


Richard Foster relishing chance to impress at St Johnstone

Richard Foster is happy to be joining "one of the most consistent teams in the league" after swapping Ross County for St Johnstone.

With defenders Dave Mackay, Ally Gilchrist, Keith Watson and Tam Scobbie all injured, manager Tommy Wright has bolstered his squad by signing the versatile former Aberdeen, Bristol City and Rangers full-back.

The 31-year-old could make his debut against Ladbrokes Premiership champions Celtic on Saturday after County allowed him to move on a free transfer.

Foster, who has signed a season-long deal, told his new club's official website: "I think if you look at the past few seasons, including the Scottish Cup win which was massive, St Johnstone are always in and around the top six and are one of the most consistent teams in the league."

He added: "They have a good, experienced squad here and there's a lot of competition for places. But hopefully I can bring a bit of experience and get my way into the team."

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is looking forward to meeting up with compatriot Wright when he takes his side to Perth at the weekend.

He said: "I don't know Tommy that well, I have spoken to him a number of times over the phone.

"I think he has done awfully well, I don't think he gets the credit for the job that he has done.

"I always look at fellow countrymen him like him, Neil (Lennon), Michael (O'Neill) and I like to see them do well and I think he has done a good job at St Johnstone."

Patrick Roberts is back in contention for Celtic after returning from a hamstring injury quicker than expected while new signing Dorus de Vries has trained this week after recovering from an ankle complaint.

Defender Jozo Simunovic continues his recovery from a knee problem.


Source: PAR