Callum Davidson issues message of thanks to St Johnstone and fans for support following sacking

Former St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson has issued a message of thanks to the club’s board, supporters and playing staff as he speaks out for the first time since he was sacked at the weekend.

The former Scotland international spent three years at the Perth side and famously won the League Cup and Scottish Cup double in the 2020/21 season.

He says he was “proud and honoured” of his achievements despite the way it ended after a defeat to Livingston on Saturday.

He was relieved of his duties on Sunday after six games without a win that leaves the club only four points off a relegation play-off place with just six games to go.

But Davidson showed he had no bitterness towards his former employers as he issued the statement of gratitude on their official website on Thursday afternoon.

He said: “I would like to thank Steve Brown and the St Johnstone board for giving me the opportunity to become the manager in 2020.

“I was proud and honoured. In my three seasons in charge we achieved many positive things and created wonderful, lasting memories for the football club and our supporters.

“I was assisted by a fantastic backroom staff in Steven, Alex, Alex, Melanie, John, Paul and, latterly, Liam and Elliot. They are all talented, loyal and dedicated.

“The players were also superb. The squad in 2020-21 enjoyed many highs and then last season the squad went through tough times but they showed great character, spirit and resilience to preserve their SPFL Premiership status.

“We rebuilt the squad in the summer and I believe they will make sure they finish high enough up the League to remain in the top flight.”

He also took time to show support for his Steven MacLean who has been handed the role on an interim basis until the end of the season and paid tribute to the support.

He said: “I wish Steven and the staff well in the final few games of the season.

“Steven has the ability to be a successful manager if he chooses to go down that route in the future.

“Also, a huge thanks to the St Johnstone supporters.

“They gave me incredible backing in my three years as manager. I’ll always remember that and be grateful for it.

“For any football club, there is always a better chance of success when there is unity.

“When everyone sticks together, positive things can be achieved and with the full backing of the St Johnstone support, Steven and the players can finish the season well.

“I also wish the Brown family well for whatever the future holds for them.

“Geoff and Steve have given everything to Saints for over 35 years and deserve enormous credit for the sustained stability and success they’ve achieved.

“Finally, reflecting on my 14 years with St Johnstone, I am very proud to have been a part of what has been a very successful time in the history of this wonderful club.

“Thank you for the memories!”