Craig Thomson has tried his best to “look and learn” from Michael O’Halloran.
But the St Johnstone winger has stressed he is no carbon copy.
Thomson made his full debut in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Hamilton after O’Halloran was stood down as a result of the Rangers transfer saga.
The 20-year-old man of the match is blessed with similar raw pace to the former Celtic and Bolton forward.
But he knows how much effort O’Halloran has put in to improve his game, and it’s an example Thomson will look to follow.
“Mikey is a player I have been looking up to and I have seen how he has worked on his own game,” he said.
“I am a bit different to Mikey but we play in the same position and have a similar style I suppose.
“I have tried to look and learn from him.”
Thomson believes O’Halloran would be able to get the better of him in a sprint…..for the moment.
“We’re both fast but I think Mikey would win if we had a race,” he admitted. “It would be close but I think he might just edge it. It could be a year or two before I can beat him in a sprint.
“It is something I can work on, making myself even faster. I know Mikey has managed that with specific training to up his speed. He worked hard over the summer and I am trying to following his lead.”
The faith Thomson team-mates have shown in him has helped him make the step up from squad man into the starting XI.
He said: “It was a big confidence boost to have players here saying they think I can step up to the plate if he does move on.”
Saturday’s goalless draw won’t live long in the memory of many people who witnessed it, apart from the Thomson clan that is.
“It was a great experience to get my first start after being involved with the squad for a while now,” he said. “And it was a bonus to get the man of the match award.
“I only found out I was starting 90 minutes before kick-off when the manager took me aside.
“It was quite a surprise but it was probably a good way to be told because I didn’t have to think about it overnight.
“The gaffer just said to be confident and positive when I got the ball.
“I felt I had done well enough when I came on from the bench so I didn’t feel out of place.
“I know I have a lot to work on but I feel the way I play is exciting for the fans. They seem to like seeing someone taking on defenders and especially a younger player who has come through the ranks.”
Thomson added: “My mum, dad and sister were at the game so it was great they managed to see me in my first full game for St Johnstone.
“I was quite lucky because they don’t all get along to the games. But my mum had a feeling I might get my chance and she was proved right.
“Now it would be massive if I managed to get a game at Celtic Park.