Murray Davidson has had his eyes opened to the precarious nature of a footballer’s career.
And his appreciation of a new two-year deal with St Johnstone reflects that.
A serious knee injury last season and, to a lesser extent a sickening blow to the head in this one, have shown the former Livingston man that nothing can be taken for granted.
From being a Scotland international linked with big money moves, he’s had to prove himself all over again.
“Going back to when I injured my knee, I was actually in the middle of talks to extend,” Davidson recalled.
“Then I was out for nine months so everything had to be put on hold.
“Ever since then it’s been short-term deals because I’ve had to prove my fitness.
“The manager has always said that if I could manage to get back 100% fit we’ll sit down and talk.
“He’s obviously seen enough in the games I’ve played to offer me a new contract. I’m delighted to get it tied up and delighted to have a bit of security for the first time in two years.”
He added: “It hasn’t made a difference to me on the pitch. I play every game the same.
“But your eyes do get opened when you have a serious injury.
“When I was getting close to my contract running down in the past I didn’t think there was a problem.
“But I’ve seen how easy it is to be out of the game for a long time.
“I literally just jumped for a header and that was me out for over nine months.
“Anything can happen in football. It’s such a short career, you have to take every opportunity that comes your way.
“To be at a place like St Johnstone for another couple of years is a great thing.
“A few people have probably thought the grass was greener but it hasn’t turned out that way.”
It’s been a busy couple of months off the pitch at McDiarmid Park, with Davidson joining the likes of Chris Kane, Chris Millar, Dave Mackay, Brian Easton and David Wotherspoon in agreeing new contracts.
“Everyone the manager has spoken to so far has signed,” Davidson pointed out.
“That speaks volumes for the club.
“It will ensure that we keep the continuity that has served us well.
“It’s looking like the majority of the current squad is going to stay.
“There won’t be many teams in the league that can say the same. Off the top of my head I think seven or eight have committed over the last few months.
“A lot of the time it’s done in April or May, or even in the summer.
“But the fact we’re getting it done earlier means the manager will be able to explore other areas.”
Davidson hopes that goalkeeper Alan Mannus will soon follow suit.
“From what I hear, the manager is still speaking to another couple of players,” he said.
“Alan is one of them. He’s been one of the best keepers in the league for a few years and it would be great if he stays. It would be a massive boost.”
On Monday Davidson was able to run for the first time since he picked up a calf strain against Celtic, and he is optimistic about being available for Saturday’s clash with Kilmarnock.