St Mirren make DOUBLE appointment to combat Covid-19 issues at club

St Mirren have made big moves to guard against more coronavirus cases. Picture: SNS

The Buddies’ last two fixtures were postponed due to positive cases of coronavirus leaving Jim Goodwin without enough first-team players to fulfil fixtures against Motherwell and Hamilton Accies.

St Mirren have appointed former Scottish Police Federation chairman and former Buddies star Brian Docherty as its first safeguarding and quality manager.

Docherty returns to the club he joined in 1974 where he made more than 20 appearances before a move to Arbroath.

St Mirren have also retained risk management expert and Buddies fan Dr Kevin Pollock to review and enhance the club’s internal processes.

Both have vast experience in their respective fields with chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick hoping the move will prevent further postponements with reports of a possible SPFL investigation.

“The postponement of our two games following positive tests amongst playing staff was disappointing,” Fitzpatrick said. “Everyone associated with the club has a paramount duty to do whatever it takes to make sure we absolutely minimise the risk of any infection.

"That’s why we have appointed Brian and Kevin, both of whom have close and longstanding links to the club, to help us tackle this continued very real risk to society and our club.

"These two senior appointments significantly strengthen the infrastructure within the club and will enhance our capabilities. Every single member of staff at the club, at all levels, knows that our approach to this challenge has to be as professional and robust as possible. We are committed to leaving no stone unturned and look forward to the contribution both Brian and Kevin will make."