UCHE CAN BE KEY TO KEEPING SAINTS SAFE

Sam Curtis believes comeback striker Uche Ikpeazu can be a major influence in St Johnstone's survival fight.

- FRASER MACKIE

Ikpeazu made his long-awaited debut for Saints as a late substitute in last Sunday's Scottish Cup semi-final loss to Celtic.

It was the 30-year-old's first action since last April when he played his final game for Port Vale.

Curtis is intrigued by the potential physical problems Ikpeazu could pose for the Perth side's relegation rivals now that he's finally fit.

The Sheffield United defender had a taste of tackling the former Hearts striker in training.

And he's looking forward to watching Ikpeazu be properly unleashed on the Premiership by boss Simo Valakari.

Curtis (19) said: “Uche is huge, powerful and really difficult to handle.

“I had to mark him in training not that long ago and he nearly pulled my arm out of my socket!

“He's so strong, probably the strongest striker I've played against.

“He will be big for us over the next few games because he's different to the other strikers we have so he adds a new dimension.

“And defenders won't like the thought of coming up against him when he plays.”