St Mirren Manager Robinson “Optimistic” About Extending Declan John’s Contract

St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson has expressed “optimism” that ongoing discussions with Wales defender Declan John will lead to him remaining with the club until at least the summer. The 29-year-old, who joined in November on a short-term agreement valid until January, has so far made only two substitute appearances but is set to start in place of the suspended Scott Tanser for the upcoming match against Rangers on Boxing Day. Robinson stated, “It was short term initially but we’re speaking to Declan currently about extending that deal, because we feel he’s been very good cover.” He further added, “He’s getting the fitness, he’s played at very good levels, and he’s added a bit of quality to us.” Robinson also noted, “And it’s important that Scott has that competition, and they’re both fighting to be the number one.” “I’m optimistic, at least until the end of the season,” Robinson commented, explaining, “He’s enjoyed himself without getting the game time. He was due to start on Saturday (at Ross County), but ended up coming down with an illness overnight in the hotel.” Declan John, a former Rangers defender, commented, “We have been having a chat with the club over the last week or so, so we’ll see where things go.” He added, “When I got the phone call, it was an easy decision for me to come up. I know the league fairly well from when I was up here previously. So, it’s been all good so far.” In other news, Robinson disclosed that captain Mark O’Hara, initially expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks due to a thigh problem, is “maybe not as bad as we first feared” and might return to play sooner than anticipated.