UPDATE: St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson has confirmed he will implement significant changes ahead of their crucial match against Rangers at Ibrox on Tuesday. Following a disappointing goalless draw with Kilmarnock on Saturday, Robinson acknowledged that fatigue impacted his players’ performance and is determined to reinvigorate the squad for this high-stakes encounter.
The Premier Sports Cup winners, who aimed for a fourth consecutive victory, were held back by Kilmarnock in a match that exposed the weariness of several players. Robinson stated, “I thought there were certain individuals that the last couple of weeks probably just caught up with them.” He hinted that he may have been too conservative with his substitutions during the match, saying, “Maybe I should have made more changes at half-time in hindsight.”
Robinson is expected to recall striker Mikael Mandron for the Tuesday showdown, while captain Mark O’Hara could make his first start since his foot injury on November 1. O’Hara has been training for the past few weeks and is eager to contribute. Robinson added, “We’ve obviously got Mark O’Hara back again. It may be an opportunity for him.”
With a five-game unbeaten streak on the line, Robinson emphasized the need for fresh legs: “There’s a few tired legs, so I do need to freshen it up.” He plans to utilize his squad’s depth, saying, “We’ll have energy. We’ll make changes in the team. We’ll freshen it up.”
This match is pivotal not just for the current season but also marks the end of an extraordinary year for St Mirren. Robinson reflected on the team’s achievements, including a third consecutive top-six finish and their fifth major trophy win. “It’s been a year that the football club will remember for a long, long time,” he stated passionately. He also revealed, “The cup competition and obviously winning it was an absolute highlight.”
As St Mirren seeks to build on their recent successes, Robinson’s strategic adjustments will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The upcoming clash at Ibrox is not just another game; it represents an opportunity to solidify their standing in the league and showcase their resilience.
Fans will be eager to see how the changes affect the team’s performance as they prepare to face a formidable opponent. With the stakes high, Robinson’s decisions will be pivotal in determining whether St Mirren can maintain their impressive run and continue to defy expectations.
Stay tuned for updates as the match approaches and see if Robinson’s fresh approach pays off at Ibrox.
