Alan Maybury felt right at home after clinching another 12-month deal with St Johnstone.
The former Republic of Ireland international sealed a return to the Perth club in familiar surroundings.
The defender, who spent last season with Saints after arriving from Colchester, signed on for another campaign at the club’s training base in Dublin.
Manager Derek McInnes said, “Alan probably played more games for us last season than many people realise and his performances were consistent wherever he played.
“Sometimes players like Alan who can play a few positions get a raw deal because they are adaptable.
“But I have a trust in Alan as a defender. He is a dogged, determined individual who commands the respect of his team-mates.
“It has taken longer than anticipated but we have got there in the end.”Jack of all tradesMaybury (32), who was pitched straight into Thursday night’s 1-1 draw with Drogheda United, said, “It’s taken a wee bit of time because the gaffer was away and my agent is here in Dublin.
“It wasn’t easy getting together. But I definitely wanted to come back.”
He added, “It’s a 12-month deal and at my age you don’t get much more these days. Hopefully I can play my part in kicking on this season.”
Maybury admits his versatility can be a plus and a minus, adding, “There was a spell in my career when being adaptable was certainly an advantage and maybe it’s the case again here.
“Managers have always had different opinions about what I can do and what roles I can fill. I remember at Leicester Craig Levein believed I was a full-back so I could play either on the right or the left.
“But there have been times when it has been a disadvantage being a jack of all trades. I have found myself on the bench because I can fill in a lot of holes.”
Maybury said, “Maybe it has counted against me but last season I still got around 25 starts for Saints so I played my fair share. We have a small squad here and I want to contribute my bit over the season.
“I don’t know how many pre-seasons I’ve done now but it never gets any easier.
“Now I just want to get on with the games for real.”