Valakari anticipates improved performance after additional training

Simo Valakari expresses confidence that St Johnstone is prepared to end their current three-match losing run, attributing this readiness to “very beneficial” additional training sessions. The Saints are scheduled to play Kilmarnock at home on Saturday, following the conclusion of the international break. The recently-appointed manager, Valakari, commented on the team’s recent activities, stating: “Spending more time together on the training field, spending time on little details, it has been very beneficial.” He further noted the positive impact on player fitness, adding, “Players who had little injuries have had time to heal and players with bigger injuries have been working hard.” Valakari emphasized his philosophy regarding team morale, stating, “For me the confidence is our preparation, the daily process of what we do on the training ground.” He also reflected on the team’s performance, remarking, “Three losses in a row is not us, we don’t like it, but if we got three wins in a row it doesn’t mean we would automatically win the fourth.” Valakari affirmed his enthusiasm for the upcoming match against Kilmarnock, describing them as a “very well coached” side. He elaborated on his assessment of the opposition, stating: “I really like what I see from Kilmarnock, I like how they overload the opponents’ last line, they put a lot of players there.” Valakari further analyzed their offensive strategy, adding, “They will put the ball in the box because they have big strikers, but if you give them time and space, they will play.” He concluded by outlining his team’s required approach: “We know we need to be our best to get something out of the match and we need to be humble, concentrated and do the small things as well as possible.”