St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari is assessing his squad needs with 11 days left in the Scottish Premiership winter transfer window. The club's immediate focus is resolving the status of Bosnian left-back Enes Alic, whose signing from FK Zeljeznicar is pending FIFA ratification, according to a report from www.google.com.hk. This week, Valakari must also decide if further reinforcements are required in other areas.
St Johnstone currently sit 8th in the Premiership with 3 points from three games, having recorded one win and two losses. They have scored 5 goals and conceded 6, leaving them with a -1 goal difference and six points behind league leaders Celtic. Their next match is a home fixture against 6th-placed Dundee United on October 17th, a game you can preview on our fixtures page.
What is the situation with Enes Alic?
The proposed signing of Enes Alic has become a complicated affair. St Johnstone are waiting for football's global governing body to formally approve the transfer. However, his former club, FK Zeljeznicar, has publicly stated that Alic remains their player. This creates an uncertain backdrop for Valakari's defensive planning. Until FIFA provides clarity, the left-back position remains a pressing concern for the Perth side.
Matthew Foulds is currently the only natural left-back available in the squad. This shortage has forced right-back Liam Smith to cover on the opposite flank at times. Securing Alic's services, or identifying an alternative, is a key piece of business before the window shuts. The club's current defensive record and league standing, visible on our standings page, underline the need for stability.
Where else might St Johnstone strengthen?
Beyond the left-back issue, Valakari is considering moves in at least two other positions. The manager may seek another option at right-back to provide competition and cover. Central midfield is another area under review. The existing group includes Reece McAlear, Jason Holt, Sam Stanton, and Macaulay Tait. The club recently assessed former Mansfield Town midfielder Aaron Lewis but opted against offering him a contract.
These potential moves indicate a desire to add depth and quality to a squad navigating the early stages of the Premiership season. With a goal difference of -1, tightening up defensively while maintaining an attacking threat will be vital. You can review the contributions of the current midfield options on our squad page.
What does the current league context demand?
St Johnstone's transfer activity is set against a specific competitive backdrop. Their recent form reads LLW, highlighting a need for greater consistency. Being six points off the top so early in the campaign shows the challenge ahead. Every point gained or lost in the coming months will be significant in a tightly packed table.
The home game against Dundee United represents an early opportunity to climb the standings. Preparations for that match will be influenced by what business, if any, is concluded in the final days of the window. The immediate priority is getting the Alic deal over the line. A successful resolution would allow Valakari and his players to focus fully on their upcoming fixtures and improving their league position.
