St Johnstone’s hunt for a manager continues after Paul Cook talks break down

ST JOHNSTONE have failed to reach agreement with Sligo Rovers manager Paul Cook after earmarking him as a potential successor to Derek McInnes.

Saints received permission from the Airtricity League club to speak to the Liverpudlian and had agreed a compensation deal following McInnes’ move to Bristol City.

But Cook has rejected the opportunity to take over at McDiarmid Park following discussions.

A statement on the Perth club’s website read: “The club’s search for a replacement manager continues today but it does not appear that the successor to Derek McInnes will be Paul Cook.

“The current manager of Sligo Rovers has been in highly-publicised talks with St Johnstone about the vacant post but the two parties have been unable to reach agreement on personal terms and the club therefore moves on to other options.

“Alec Cleland and Jody Morris continue to be in temporary charge of the team as the squad prepares for Saturday’s game against St Mirren at McDiarmid Park.”