Tommy Wright won’t be burdening young winger Craig Thomson with the ‘new Michael O’Halloran’ tag.
But the St Johnstone boss does believe that in time he will become a worthy successor to the half-a-million pound Rangers man.
Thomson’s first team opportunities increased as speculation over O’Halloran’s future grew, and the 20-year-old produced a man of the match performance in his first start against Hamilton recently.
Both men are blessed with blistering pace, but Wright doesn’t feel it’s a fair comparison yet.
“I don’t want to put pressure on Craig Thomson,” the Northern Irishman said.
“He’s a good young player with a good future but he’s a lot younger than Michael.
“He’s proved to be a first team player but there will be no pressure on him being an automatic replacement for Michael.
“It will help his development because he’ll definitely get more game time but we’ve got others who can play in that position.
“Craig is still learning the game, but he could certainly fill Michael’s shoes long term.”
Wright was happy to snap up Danny Swanson on Tuesday, and hasn’t ruled out bringing in a free agent over the next few weeks.
But he already has one eye on the next transfer window, which he believes will be a crucial one.
Wright explained: “I do feel and I’ve spoken to the chairman about it that pre-season will be an important stage for us.
“I think the league is getting stronger. It’s certainly got tougher this year.
“Look at the teams above us Aberdeen were going to splash the cash on Tansey and Hearts have spent money, while Celtic will always do it.
“Ross County are going well and have been able to attract players like Goodwillie, Dundee will spend again, and there’s the possibility of Rangers and Hibs coming up.
“In the summer we’ll have to look at strengthening the squad for an even tougher season to try and maintain the top six position we’ve had for a few years.
“We still might get one in. There are a few free agents floating about. We haven’t ruled that out.
“I’m not the only manager who would like more in.”