New Era for St Johnstone: Simo Valakari's Vision
St Johnstone Football Club has welcomed a new head coach, Simo Valakari, who is determined to inject ambition into the team at McDiarmid Park. Born from a rich career in both playing and managing, Valakari carries with him a wealth of experience and a strong desire for success.
A Winning Mentality
Having previously played for clubs such as Motherwell and Derby, Valakari's passion for winning is evident. He has already declared his intentions to not only target trophies but also to aim for a top-six finish in the Scottish Premiership. "I'm a winner, I want to win trophies," he stated in an interview with Sky Sports News. This assertion sets a clear expectation for both the players and the fans alike.
Recent Challenges at St Johnstone
St Johnstone's past seasons have been a mix of highs and lows. The club experienced tremendous success during the 2020/21 season by clinching the domestic cup double and finishing fifth in the league. However, their performance has notably declined since then, with the team failing to rise above ninth place in the standings. Currently sitting at 10th in the league standings and just two points above the bottom, Valakari faces the challenge of revitalizing the squad.
Understanding the Club's History
Being acutely aware of the club's rich history, Valakari emphasizes the need for St Johnstone to reclaim its competitive edge in Scotland. "The size of this football club, we need to be challenging for those trophies every year. It was not long ago that we were, but that's football; it moves forward quickly,” he explained. His aim is to strengthen the club this season and prepare for a more potent campaign next year.
Coaching Background and Philosophy
Previously the head coach at Latvian club Riga, Valakari brings with him a successful track record, having garnered six major honours—five in Finland and one in Latvia. His strategic approach and innovative coaching methods are necessary ingredients for St Johnstone as they aim to improve their current league performance.
Upcoming Matches and Expectations
As Valakari prepares to take the helm, he will watch the team from the stands in their upcoming fixture against Rangers on October 6, before officially starting his tenure against Ross County on October 19. The next six fixtures are crucial for demonstrating the players' adaptation to Valakari's strategies:
- Rangers (H) - Scottish Premiership - October 6
- Ross County (H) - Scottish Premiership - October 19
- Dundee (A) - Scottish Premiership - October 26
- St Mirren (A) - Scottish Premiership - October 30
- Hearts (H) - Scottish Premiership - November 2
- Motherwell (A) - Scottish Premiership - November 9
Support from the Club's Management
St Johnstone owner Adam Webb expressed confidence in Valakari’s capabilities, stating, "Simo rose to the top after an extensive hiring process and interviews with several great candidates. He has a remarkable vision for the future of St Johnstone." This backing underscores the club's commitment to fostering a competitive and fruitful environment under Valakari’s leadership.
The Path Forward
The appointment of Simo Valakari heralds a fresh chapter for St Johnstone. With his focus on winning and established experience, fans can anticipate exciting days ahead. The crucial challenge is not just to secure better league positions but also to inspire a mindset of ambition and tenacity within the squad.
For live action from the Scottish Premiership, check out streaming options with NOW and stay updated on St Johnstone’s progress this season.
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