St Johnstone’s new signing Lee Croft has taken a swipe at former McDiarmid manager Steve Lomas for allegedly offering him false hope.
Croft, who has agreed a deal with the Perth club to the end of the season, islooking to resurrect a career that he claims was hindered when a proposed move to Millwall failed to materialise.
The midfielder was brought to Saints on loan in January 2012 when Lomas was boss and the Englishman had hoped to renew the working relationship at the New Den, where the Northern Irishman is in charge.
Croft had been voted player of the season at his then club Oldham and featured in all but one of their games.
He was offered a fresh contract by the Latics but rejected both that and a chance to go to Doncaster Rovers following the interest from the Lions.
That is something he has lived to regret.
“It is great to finally get myself settled again,” said Croft. “I have had a frustrating time of it since the summer.
“I had a great season last year with Oldham and kicked pretty much every ball,” said Croft.
“It was one of the best years of my career.But I got messed around after turning down an offer tabled by Oldham.
“I was led to believe there would be a deal for me elsewhere and I also turned down interest from Doncaster because Millwall wanted me.
“But the weeks went by and eventually Lomas had brought in other players and said his budget was spent.
“He had brought me to Perth on loan so it left a sour taste in the mouth.
“It has led to a really frustrating period but now it is behind me and I can focus on my football again.”
For full reaction to the signing see Wednesday’s Courier or try our digital edition.