When I wrote my last update at Christmas, I couldn’t possibly have foreseen such a tumultuous three months ahead.
We had just managed a creditable draw against Celtic with a COVID ravaged squad to end a long run of poor results. Who would have predicted such an uplift in form in the early days after the winter break, a change of Management team, the retirement of our CEO and then a dip in results that ultimately dashed our hopes of a top six slot again? Even those of us who have experienced the many highs and lows of being a Saints fan over the years would have struggled to have foreseen such a sequence of events.
As a Board we were naturally sad to see Jim and Lee move on, but we were delighted to recruit Stephen and Diarmuid so quickly to replace them. I know early results have been disappointing, but I remain confident that they will turn things around and deliver a team that continues the progress of recent years. Their record in Scottish football was what attracted us to them and generated such positivity on their appointment. Not only did they enjoy considerable success on the park, but they also integrated exciting young players into their teams, and I believe that fits with our history and strategy as a Club.
I’m as disappointed as any fan at recent results but I keep reminding myself that last year’s seventh placing was our best in decades. We want to maintain and build on that standard, but football can be such an unpredictable sport as we all know. All I can ask is that you maintain your loyal support to help the team through this sticky patch.
31st March marked the end of an era when Tony Fitzpatrick retired from his role as CEO. I’m sure you will all join me in thanking Tony for his loyalty and hard work over the years. His service as a player (twice), Manager (twice) and CEO is unlikely to be replicated at any club. Whilst he will continue as an Ambassador after a short break, I hope he and Maureen enjoy a long and happy retirement.
We have confirmed that Keith Lasley will be joining us from Motherwell in mid-May to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer. I am absolutely delighted with this appointment and excited to welcome Keith to St Mirren. We received a large number of applications for the role and Keith was selected from a very strong shortlist. He is currently studying for a Masters degree and is ambitious to forge a career in high level management in football. Also his wide experience at Motherwell, another fan-owned Club, means he is a great fit for us. I’m really looking forward to working with Keith and know he will bring great energy and insight to the Club.
As we look forward to the final fixtures, we are already making plans for next year and that includes the vexed question of whether to continue providing two stands to Rangers and Celtic at the SMISA Stadium. This is attracting increased comment from our fans so in line with our position as a majority fan owned club, I have invited a small group of fans with to consider the issue. They will report back in the next couple of weeks ahead of us planning for next season.
Finally, I’m sure you all understand that the final five fixtures are vital for the Club as we aim to finish as high in the league as possible. We all feel it when results are not going our way but I’m sure you will get behind the team for these games. Please come along and back the team for the final push. Your vocal support is so important and is really appreciated by the players and staff.
Thanks for your support!
