Uche Ikpeazu will be a valuable end-of-season substitute for St Johnstone in a variety of different circumstances, according to Perth boss, Simo Valakari.
After enduring three knee operations and 10 months on the sidelines, the powerful forward is working his way back into match-day squad contention.
Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final may come too soon for the former Hearts striker to be involved.
But when the time comes for Ikpeazu to make an impact off the bench, Valakari believes he can yet make an important contribution to Saints’ Premiership survival battle.
“It’s a long time Uche has been out,” said the McDiarmid Park head coach. “Nearly a year.
“But that’s a full week of training.
“His presence would help us progress up the field and he is so difficult to play against if you’re a defender.
“We don’t have another player like him.
“The best thing about Uche is he makes the other strikers, midfielders and wingers look better because they can play off him.
“That’s why we are trying to push him.”
Valakari added: “There are some strikers who you can only use off the bench if you are losing.
“With Uche we could use him if we are winning or losing.
“If we are winning and defending low because the opponent is putting pressure on us, he can hold the ball and help us to get out.
“And if we are losing, he is a player we can get into the box and put balls in for things to happen.”
Strong belief
When he does return, Ikpeazu’s mentality will also be an asset for Valakari.
“In our situation, we need players who believe,” he said.
“And Uche strongly believes that he will help the team.
“It has been a catastrophic year for him – I have seen him so down.
“I love to see the passion and sparkle back in his eyes, wanting to help his team-mates out on the pitch.
“It has not been his fault – injuries happen.
“But he has taken criticism because of the timing of it.
“He wants to show everyone that he can help this club.”
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