JOSH KEEN TO MAKE AN IMPRESSION

New recruit Josh Falkingham has spoken enthusiastically about his move to Saints and his determination to secure a longer-term deal at McDiarmid Park.

The 19 year old central midfielder has been training with the club for the past few weeks having left Leeds United on 1st January and he admits having to search for a new club has been a tough proposition.

“I had been with Leeds United since I was eight years old so it was a big wrench to leave. I felt I had been progressing well and Gary McAllister seemed to rate me and in fact gave me a first team squad number. However, when Simon Grayson came in he preferred to stick with tried and tested players so myself and a few others around my age were left frustrated.

“I had a trial with Bury but the problem is that in the Coca-Cola Leagues it seems to be all about height and physicality and I’m not exactly built for that! It’s been tough but I am thrilled to bits that the Manager has given this chance at St Johnstone and I am determined to repay him.”

Josh says he has been made to feel very welcome at the Club and he has been helped by the fact that he already knew Under 19 player David Heagney from the Saints man’s time with Huddersfield Town – they played against each other regularly for their respective youth sides.

Josh, who’s just a matter of days too old to play for the Saints Under 19 side, has had the opportunity to see the first team in action against Motherwell, Falkirk and Aberdeen and he admits that the prospect of possibly making his first contribution for the club at Parkhead is special.

“The Manager has told me that I am in the squad for tomorrow but I am obviously disappointed for all the boys who are out injured. It would be unbelievable to be involved tomorrow, even just to be in the squad. I’m looking forward to the game and the rest of the season and am determined to reward the manager for his faith in me.”