Clark believes frustrated Saints can find safety

NICKY Clark has “no doubts” St Johnstone will play their way to Premiership safety this season.

The Perth side sit 10th in the Premiership, one point ahead of Ross County, current occupants of the play-off place, and a healthy 11 points clear of basement boys Livingston.

Saturday’s defeat to Dundee was a painful one for the Perth side, who created plenty of chances but were punished for two mistakes.

Clark, who is set to play a key role for Craig Levein’s side over the run-in, is confident Saints have enough about them to retain their Premiership status and believes strike-partner Adama Sidibeh, who opened his Perth account with a spectacular overhead kick against Dundee, is a particular asset.

“That goal has been coming for Adama. He’s been working really hard,” said Clark.

“This is a step-up from where he’s been playing previously so he’s done well.

“He’s obviously got a lot to learn, but he’s a major threat for us in behind with his pace.

“He’s got great ability in the air and everyone is delighted for him getting his first goal for the club.

“He has definitely got talent. He’s a strong boy who can take the ball in.

“We’ve all seen in training his finishing ability, he hits the ball really cleanly and finds the corners. The more games he plays, I’m sure he’ll get better.

“It was a great goal. I’ve no idea how he got up that high – I know I couldn’t do that any more.

“When that goes in, we’re thinking we can go on and win. I think we can do better for their second goal, I think it came from a throw-in just inside our half.

“It was a very frustrating afternoon for us.”