SIMO HAS RAISED MY GAME... NOW I WANT TO LIFT US BACK TO PREMIERSHIP

McPake hails boss' impact on him as he eyes quick return to top tier

- FRASER MACKIE

Josh McPake has revealed how Simo Valakari’s demands have raised his game to a new level.

Now he’s determined to showcase more improvements next season as soon as the battle begins to bring St Johnstone straight backup.

The former Rangers winger barely featured in the first six months of the season.

Since the league split, McPake has been Saints’ most consistent performer.

His performances weren't able to save the team from relegation to the Championship.

But the 23-year-old’s newly-upgraded skill set hints at being a valuable and exciting weapon for Saints in the second tier.

McPake said: “I'm looking forward to next season already. This is probably the best I’ve felt in my career.

“In a way, I wish the season was still going because I feel good, I feel sharp, I feel fit.