Tommy Wright has spoken of his pride at becoming the new St Johnstone manager.
The Northern Irishman, who revealed that Gregory Tade has signed a new one-year-deal and Paddy Cregg is expected to follow suit in the next few days, was officially unveiled as the replacement for Steve Lomas.
Wright said: “I’m very proud. When I finished my playing career I went back to the Irish League.
“So to be standing here as manager of an SPL club 12 years down the line makes me really proud and excited.”
Perth chairman Steve Brown accentuated the stability and continuity that Wright and his number two Callum Davidson will bring to the McDiarmid Park dug-out.
He said: “For me, Tommy’s appointment was the obvious one after he decided not to go down south with Steve. Stability and continuity are extremely important for any club but for one of our size, it is absolutely paramount.
“He is very laid back but if he needs to show his teeth, he has done. I think the players know that as well. You can only take him so far before he will put you back in your place which is great and what we are looking for.
“Tommy was keen to bring Callum in as his assistant. Callum is a former international who is well respected by the players. Everything he does is professional and Tommy and him will get on really well. I think it is a good combination.
“A year and a half ago, we said we hoped Steve Lomas would be here for two years and beyond. But if he was not and he had been taken away to the Championship, it meant that St Johnstone had been successful.
“Potentially, it could happen again but we just have to accept that.”
David McCracken and Rowan Vine haven’t been offered new terms at Saints, but Wright left the door open for Murray Davidson, should a move to his liking not materialise for the midfielder.
He said: “Our offer’s off the table. But if he wanted to come back I’m sure the chairman would sit down and talk with him.
“I’m very surprised he hasn’t been signed up, unless he’s got options and he’s biding his time.”