Zak Rudden is ready to reap the rewards of working alongside experienced St Johnstone duo Stevie May and Nicky Clark.
The 22-year-old forward, on loan from Dundee until the end of the season, has already witnessed their class and quality.
Rudden recently made the switch to McDiarmid Park and is keen to get the ball rolling on a successful stint in Perth.
“Everyone has been very welcoming,” he said. “The players, manager and staff have been good.
“It is a great thing for me to learn off Nicky Clark and Stevie May every day. Even on the pitch, I can watch them and pick up everything I can.
“I have seen them both play for a long time, since I was wee. They are people you want to look up to, take things from and put it into your own game.”
Rudden, who made his debut in last week’s defeat to Celtic, has already seen plenty to suggest that this Saints team has the capability to only be looking up.
He said: “The team played brilliantly in that game against Motherwell, moving the ball and working together very well. They were very good and I’m looking forward to getting involved.
“At times we played good football against Celtic. Yes they scored four goals but sometimes that is the way it goes.
“We did have some opportunities and you need to take your chances. We have a capable squad here that can really push for the top six.”
Grabbing some goals – sooner rather than later – is of course Rudden’s mission. With no competitive fixture this weekend due to the Scottish Cup, the work behind the scenes will continue.
“I know I am going to have to bide my time and work hard in training,” he said.
“When I do get on, I need to do well. This is not going to get handed to me.
“It would’ve been nice to get a goal last Sunday but I’ll be trying to get it as soon as I get a chance.”
Saints had previously been interested in bringing Rudden to Perth and he appreciates the feeling of being wanted.
“When I found out that Callum wanted me again, I wanted to take the chance to come here,” he told the Perthshire Advertiser. “It is a nice feeling when someone wants you.
“When he asked about me again, I jumped at the chance – and to play in the Scottish Premiership. I want to have a real go at it.
“I got a little bit of game-time with Dundee in the Premiership but it never really worked the way I wanted it to.
“But hopefully it works this time. And I will be working hard to make sure it does. I am delighted to be here.”
