Skipper Stephen Craigan expects an entertaining encounter tomorrow as Motherwell travel to face the side he reckons is the most improved in the country.
Following the signing of attacking talents such as Gary Teale, Paul McGowan, Nigel Hasselbaink and Steven Thompson, the Buddies have flew out of the traps this season, displaying a passing fluidity which was perhaps absent for much of last season’s campaign.
The improvement in the Paisley side comes as no surprise to Craigan, who expects a serious threat to the Steelmen’s unbeaten start.
“You could say that, after three games, St.Mirren have been the most improved side in Scotland,” he praised. “With the quality of player they’ve brought in – the calibre – I think it was obvious that they would be much better than last season.
“Danny (Lennon) has got the players in that he wanted to and has St Mirren playing the way he wants them to, and it’s going to be a good game – two unbeaten sides.
“I think it (‘Well’s place at the top of the league) can be a little bit deceptive in the early stages. We’ve had a reasonable start and that was always our aim; it gets us points on the boards and covers you in case you have any little dips along the way. We now must focus on carrying on that early form.”
[pullquote]You could say that, after three games, St.Mirren have been the most improved side in Scotland.[/pullquote]
As the ‘Well skipper – and fellow part of a watertight defence – Craigan had some positive words for young Steven Saunders, who looks to be out for between six and nine months with a ruptured achilles tendon.
The former Northern Ireland stalwart is aware of the serious nature of the injury, but has backed his young team-mate to fight back with aplomb.
“As soon as I found out Stevie’s injury occurred I was in contact,” 34-year old recalled. “I think it will be a few days before he’s back in here but he’ll get plenty of support.
“It’s actually been a horrific week for the whole of Scottish football; there’s been some really serious injuries. It’s strange because these guys [Severin, McGregor, Izaguirre, Saunders] are at peak fitness.
“But Steve has got age and fitness on his side and I’m sure that will be a big benefit coming back from a serious injury.”