St Johnstone boss Steven MacLean gives Theo Bair update and hopes he can hit the ground running

Theo Bair was set to return for St Johnstone pre-season — and manager Steven MacLean this week said the door remains open for him to impress.

Canadian forward Bair was made available for transfer at the end of last season but the Perth boss revealed he will be in his plans for selection if there is no movement in the coming weeks.

The 23-year-old has made just eight starts in all competitions since joining Saints in January of last year, scoring once.

His contract runs through until the summer of 2024.

MacLean, who welcomed his players back for the beginning of pre-season work yesterday, explained: “Theo will be back in training with us and we’ll see where we are.

“If nothing happens he’ll be available for selection.

“He’s our player. He’ll be treated like the rest of the boys.

“I had an honest conversation with Theo – I said to him that I thought his game-time would be limited and that it would be better for him and us if he looked for something else.

“He’s desperate to play. I’ll be very fair with him. He’ll be training with the first team.

“Hopefully he comes back, hits the ground running and gives me a problem.”

Another striker who reported for pre-season duty and who is desperate to hit the ground running was Chris Kane.

Kane, who has signed a fresh six month contract, spent 16 long months out injured but battled back to finish last season on a high.

MacLean needs no reminding about what the cup double winner brings to the table.

“He’s had a bad injury but he’s back from it now and the player we all remember is still there,” MacLean told the PA.

“He keeps the ball up the pitch, he’s hard-working, he does a lot of the unglamorous side of the game very well and he’s got a goal in him.

“You need these qualities in this