St Johnstone boss, Simo Valakari, has pledged to do everything in his power to repay the supporters for their backing of the Perth cub.
Hundreds of fans attended Monday night’s home strip launch in McDiarmid Park’s Geof Brown Stand, with CEO Fran Smith revealing that the 2,000 barrier has been broken for season ticket sales.
Valakari did a question-and-answer session after the all-blue kit was unveiled and admitted he was blown away by the attendance at the event and the season ticket news.
“I don’t have the words to describe it,” he said.
“Now we are really starting something new.”
Valakari confirmed that the fresh page being turned includes the arrival of Spanish coach, Jordi Aluja.
The 29-year-old will join his backroom team once the work permit process is completed.
“In this moment we needed new, fresh ideas from outside,” said Valakari.
“Jordi is a young coach, but he has good experience.
“I like people to challenge me and not just say ‘yes, yes, yes’.
“He will make me think, which is important.”
Much of the Saints squad has now completed day one of pre-season training, including the five new signings – Jack Baird, Morgan Boyes, Sam Stanton, Jamie Gullan and Reghan Tumilty.
“It was good to start working with them,” said Valakari.
“They looked good. I could see in their eyes how much they want to be here.”
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