Keatings and Oyenuga sign up for Saints

The St Johnstone manager has turned to friends Harry Redknapp and Neil Lennon to bolster the Perth squad for a top-six push.

But Lomas admits he faces a deadline day sweat in his bid to hold on to striker Fran Sandaza and influential captain Jody Morris. Former Saints manager Derek McInnes has been linked with a late move to lure the ex-Chelsea midfielder to Bristol City to boost his Championship survival prospects. And Lomas fears there could still be a last-gasp bid for £300,000-rated Spanish centre-forward Sandaza, who previously rejected a pre-contract offer from Rangers.

Oyenuga revealed that Scotland legend Joe Jordan had paved the way for his move north.

“He’s got that broad Scottish accent and a tough handshake,” he said. “You wouldn’t want to cross him, he’s a scary man. You try not to get in his bad books. But Joe’s been great to speak to. He’s a top man who has been a help whenever I’ve needed advice.

“I’m really excited to be here.”