Stevie May could return to action for St Johnstone against Kilmarnock today.
After being restricted to a cameo from the bench on opening day against Dundee United, the Perth striker wasn’t named for Wednesday’s clash with Rangers.
But Saints gaffer Callum Davidson revealed May is close to being available again – a situation which affords him plenty of option at the top end of the pitch.
“Young John Robertson got a kick on his ankle early doors (at Ibrox) but apart from that, they’re all fine,” he said.
“Stevie’s close. He’s touch and go for Kilmarnock, if not, probably the Aberdeen game.
“Then obviously Michael (O’Halloran)’s back from suspension which is good. Another body in.”
Loan striker Isaac “Tanto” Olaofe was handed his first Saints appearance as a second half substitute against Rangers.
The Millwall man’s bustling showing gave Davidson plenty food for thought.
“Tanto’s got the ability to shake defences,” said the Saints boss.
“He’s got the attributes, which hopefully he’ll develop this season and get better.
“[Ibrox was] good for him. It’s his first game for us against a tough team.
“I think he found it physically hard coming on as a sub – he found it hard to get his second wind.
“But he’s had a good chance and created a chance for himself, which was positive.
“But I was also pleased with John (Robertson). He’s got a real feisty character, which I like about him.”
Davidson also hailed Liam Craig, who clocked up his 400th Saints appearance at Ibrox.
The midfielder is now just 40 games away from overtaking record appearance holder Steven Anderson – and his manager believes Craig could get there.
“It’s definitely realistic,” Davidson said.
“One thing about Liam is he looks after himself really well – and he’s reinvented himself.
“I used to call him a holding winger, when I played with him! He used to call me the holding left back!
“Neither of us moved!
“But no, he’s reinvented himself as a centre midfielder. He’s managed to adapt his game because he understands the game – he’s an intelligent football player.
“When you play wide it’s a lot of energy and a lot of running. You have to be more composed in the centre of the pitch and it’s all credit to Liam for doing that.
“It’s fantastic for Liam to hit that landmark and I’m delighted for him.
“St Johnstone have had a wee history of these landmarks in the last three or four years.
“There’s Chris Millar, Murray Davidson, Steven Anderson, to name a few.
“The club has been able to keep three or four players for a long time which is actually a strength, because there’s always a constant in the dressing room – and if they’re good characters it’s even better.
“Andrew Considine’s another one who feels like he’s been at Aberdeen forever.
“All credit to these players for keeping going and keeping motiving themselves.”
