Saints relishing Celtic encounter

It’s back to SPFL Premiership action this weekend with Saints heading west to meet champions Celtic on Sunday.

The Glasgow side secured a Europa League win against Zenit St Petersburg on Thursday night and that will allow them to head into Sunday’s 3pm encounter in buoyant mood despite the absence of their suspended captain Scott Brown.

For Saints, it’s a case of trying to get back on track after a series of disappointing post-winter break results although forthcoming matches against Ross County, Kilmarnock, Dundee and Hamilton Accies will be seen as fixtures more significant in terms of required reward.

Nevertheless, leaving Celtic Park with something to show for their efforts is not beyond the players as a victory and draw there in recent times will testify and if self-inflicted damage – a trait of recent matches - can be avoided then there is reason to be confident.

Manager Tommy Wright is certainly looking forward to the latest encounter with the champions.

“We’re well aware of the task that we face and having seen Celtic’s performance on Thursday they showed what a quality side they are. Even with some injuries they are still best team in the country by a distance.

“From our point of view, we know we have to improve and cut out the errors. But we go into the game with confidence – I’ve reminded the players that we nearly took all three points there in August so head to Celtic Park in the knowledge of what we are capable of.”

January loan recruit from Fulham George Williams (pictured) is added to the squad as is fit again Liam Craig but it’s too soon for Brian Easton and David McMillan and Keith Watson is also out after picking up a knock in training.

Admission to Sunday’s game is by ticket only. Any Saints fans who have not yet purchased a ticket but make a late decision to go to the game should contact our Supporter Liaison Officer Beverley Mayer by email (Beverley@perthsaints.co.uk) or on Twitter (@SJFC_SLO) and she can meet you at the ground on Sunday.