St Johnstone head coach Simo Valakari has shared his excitement about new loan signing Alfredo Agyeman and explained how the club plans to get the best out of the exciting winger.
Agyeman, who has joined from Falkirk, arrives at McDiarmid Park with a reputation for producing moments of brilliance. Valakari described the 25-year-old as a “maverick” player but made it clear that his style will fit well into the team’s system.
“He’s a very lively character with big potential,” Valakari said. “In a good way, he has confidence in his ability. He is desperate to play and to do well for us.”
The St Johnstone boss stressed that while individual skill is important, teamwork remains the foundation of his side.
“Our very first conversation, he understood that no one looks good alone as an individual,” he explained. “No matter what tricks you have or how skilful you are, your team needs to play well.”
Valakari added that Agyeman will be given freedom within the team’s structure to express himself on the pitch.
“Inside our team structure, I give my players the freedom to show their ability,” he said. “He is a very flexible player who can play on the wings, as a number nine, or just behind the striker.”
The coach also praised Agyeman’s winning mentality, pointing to his recent success with Falkirk.
“He has been in a winning environment,” Valakari noted. “He’s won two leagues in a row, and that culture rubs off on you. That tells me he’s ready to go now.”
Valakari recalled being impressed by Agyeman during a pre-season match against Falkirk and believes the winger will quickly adapt to his new surroundings.
“He was one of the standout players for me,” he said. “He will bring us another option.”
With St Johnstone pushing hard in the Championship, the coach believes Agyeman’s creativity, combined with team discipline, can make a big difference.
“When the basics are right, then it’s handbrake off,” Valakari added. “Show what you can do, but first we defend as a team.”
