Simo thrilled Barry binned retirement for Saints

BARRY DOUGLAS admits he nearly hung up his boots - but instead threw himself into a relegation scrap at St Johnstone.

- FRASER MACKIE

The 35-year-old, signed as a free agent in October, talked himself out of retirement to help the Saints survive.

And while injury and a grim winter tested that decision, boss Simo Valakari believes Douglas' veteran know-how could be key to their run-in.