Simo Valakari has been candid with his St Johnstone squad, stressing that they must adopt a "solid and streetwise" approach if they hope to make a real impact upon their return to the Scottish Premiership. The Finnish manager, who took the reins at the Perth‑based club in October 2025, was unable to prevent the team’s relegation to the Championship at the end of that season.
However, after a swift bounce‑back, the Saints are set to re‑enter the top tier this Sunday, facing Kilmarnock in a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. During their Championship campaign, St Johnstone were remarkably consistent, suffering only three defeats as they secured the league title and immediate promotion.
Yet Valakari is quick to point out that the challenges awaiting them in the Premiership will be of a different magnitude. "We know who we are, but we cannot be that naive, pretty‑looking, nice side that simply drifts out of the Championship playing gentle football," he told Sky Sports News. "If we are not hard to beat, if we are not solid, if we are not ruthless with ourselves, it will be difficult. Yes, we have our own style and we want to stick to it, but we also have to be ready for this challenge and sometimes be streetwise." Valakari’s comments underline a pragmatic shift in mindset.
While the club’s philosophy has always prized attractive, attacking play, the manager acknowledges that the step up in quality means the Saints must also be resilient, disciplined and capable of handling the physical demands of top‑flight football. This blend of technical ability and mental toughness, he believes, will be essential to avoid another relegation battle. In preparation for the Premiership, Valakari has managed to retain the core group of players that earned promotion, while also bolstering the squad with eight new signings. Among the departures, forward Josh McPake has moved on to Hearts after agreeing a pre‑contract in January.
The manager explained that the recruitment process began well before the end of the Championship season. "It was important that we started this process already before our Championship season finished," he said. "We secured the players on two‑ or three‑year contracts, so we never wanted to find ourselves in a situation where we were scrambling for reinforcements after the Premiership season began." The new arrivals have added fresh personalities and qualities to an already balanced squad.
Valakari praised the depth and versatility now available, noting that injuries are inevitable over the course of a long season. "We have a foundation, we have good players, we have enough depth in our squad as well.
We are as ready as you can be after pre‑season to start the Premiership campaign," he asserted. Looking ahead, the manager emphasised that preparation is only part of the equation; the team must also adapt in‑game.
He expects the Saints to encounter tougher opponents, faster pace, and more physical duels than they experienced in the Championship. To meet these demands, Valakari wants his players to be mentally sharp, to make intelligent decisions under pressure, and to maintain a collective defensive solidity.
"Being streetwise" for him means recognising when to press, when to hold shape, and when to exploit the opposition’s weaknesses without losing the team’s identity. The upcoming fixture against Kilmarnock will serve as a litmus test for Valakari’s philosophy. A positive result could boost confidence and reinforce the belief that the Saints can compete at this level, while a poor showing would highlight areas needing immediate improvement.
Regardless of the outcome, Valakari is confident that the blend of experience, new talent, and a clear tactical plan will give St Johnstone a fighting chance. Fans can tune in to the Scottish Premiership live on Sky Sports to watch the Saints’ debut back in the top flight. The club’s leadership remains optimistic, with the manager concluding, "We have a very balanced squad, we have a good foundation, and we are ready to face the challenge.
If we stay solid, stay streetwise, and keep our belief, we can make this season a success." In summary, Valakari’s message to his team is clear: retain the attractive style that earned them promotion, but temper it with the grit, discipline, and tactical awareness required to survive and thrive in the Premiership. With a stable core, fresh signings, and a realistic game plan, St Johnstone aim to prove that they belong among Scotland’s elite once again.