Valakari Hopes Alic Adds Balance to Squad
ST Johnstone manager Simo Valakari is hopeful that Enes Alic will join the club, bringing balance to the squad. Alic is a free agent after leaving Zeljeznicar Sarajevo.
What Happened?
Valakari is close to signing Alic, a 26-year-old Bosnian left-back. Alic has previously played in Croatia, Hungary, and Slovenia.
Why It Matters for ST Johnstone
The completed move is still a working process, but Valakari is very hopeful that they can land him. Alic's signing will bring balance to the squad, which is important for the team's success.
What Comes Next?
The player is still waiting for a work permit, and any move will not be finalized in time for Saturday's Scottish Premiership match with St Mirren in Paisley. Valakari has kept the core of the squad that helped the club achieve promotion back to the top flight.
Valakari's Thoughts
"It is important because you cannot buy the culture," Valakari explained. "You cannot buy the togetherness. You need to live some difficult moments together. You need to experience the moments together."
Next Fixture
The team's next fixture is vs Dundee Utd at home on 2026-10-17.
Valakari Impressed with St Mirren
Like ST Johnstone, St Mirren also won their Premiership opener, and Valakari is very impressed by Craig McLeish's side. "They had a very difficult last season," said Valakari. "They survived through the play-offs."
What They're Trying to Do
"I can see what they try to do," Valakari said. "They have been working their game. They brought in good footballers there. They still have the old DNA of St Mirren, that they are very, very tough. They really want to bully you."
Conclusion
ST Johnstone is close to signing Enes Alic, a 26-year-old Bosnian left-back. Alic's signing will bring balance to the squad, which is important for the team's success.
