Trevor Carson demands St Mirren transfer as Stephen Robinson turns to summer recruit in number one search

Zach Hemming has been installed as St Mirren’s new No.1 after Stephen Robinson revealed former first-choice keeper Trevor Carson has sensationally demanded a move away from Paisley.

It’s just four months since the 35-year-old Northern Ireland international was handed a new two-year Saints deal. His performances played a key role in helping Robinson’s team into the top six last year as they recorded the club’s best top-flight finish in 38 years. But the veteran shot-stopper is now heading for the SMISA Stadium exit after Robinson confirmed pre-season whispers that a parting of the ways is imminent.

Blackpool, Dundee, St Johnstone and Dundee United had been weighing up a move for Carson but no-one has yet come up with the six-figure sum Saints are demanding. In the meantime, Robinson is preparing to begin the new season with former Killie keeper Hemming in goals, starting with today’s Viaplay Cup opener at Montrose. The St Mirren manager said: “Trevor’s made it clear he doesn’t want to be here so I had to make decisions. At the moment Zach will be No1.

“He’s been signed, he’s a very good young goalkeeper. I’m confident in what we’ve brought in and believe our recruitment has been very good.”

The news will stun the Paisley faithful. Robinson refused to divulge the detail behind Carson’s sudden change of heart on his Saints future. But the Northern Irishman - who has also previously signed the keeper for Motherwell and Morecambe - insists there’s been no major fall out.

He said: “Out of respect to me and Trevor, that has to remain private. All I can tell you are the facts, which are that Trevor made it clear he doesn’t want to be here.

“He’s obviously back in training. I’ve worked with him at a lot of different clubs and