Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has revealed he seriously considered signing Ruari Paton on a permanent basis before the striker joined St Johnstone. Paton, who had a loan spell at Tannadice a couple of seasons ago, instead moved to McDiarmid Park in the last transfer window and helped the Saints win the Championship title.
Goodwin expressed his full respect for St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari, who secured Paton's signature. "The one thing I need to say is: I'm absolutely over the moon for Ruari that it's worked out well at St Johnstone," said Goodwin. He also highlighted the resilience of Valakari's side, noting, "If you look back on St Johnstone over the last 12 to 18 months, they're not a team that's lost too many games."
Paton's impact at St Johnstone
Paton's permanent arrival has coincided with a strong start to the season for St Johnstone, who currently sit fifth in the Premiership with 11 points from eight games. Their form has been solid, with two wins, two draws and just one loss in their last five matches, a sequence that includes a victory over Hibernian and a hard-fought draw with Falkirk. Their most recent result was a 1-0 away win at Aberdeen, secured by a J. Fowler penalty.
The upcoming Tayside clash
Saturday's home fixture against Dundee United is particularly significant. The two sides are level on 11 points, with St Johnstone above their rivals on goal difference. United, who have won their last two matches, will arrive at McDiarmid Park looking to halt the Saints' momentum and stop Paton. The last meeting between the teams ended in a 1-1 draw at Dens Park in early September. St Johnstone's fixtures list shows this as a key match in the early-season standings, with both clubs separated by just goal difference.
St Johnstone host Dundee United at McDiarmid Park on Saturday, with kick-off at 3pm.
Further reading: Daily Record
