Stephen Robinson believes St Mirren’s international players have brought a “buzz” back to the Paisley club this week.
Attacker Conor McMenamin scored his first goal for Northern Ireland against San Marino, while midfielder Keanu Baccus won another two caps for Australia, one of which came against Buddies team-mate Alex Greive of New Zealand.
Defender Ryan Strain also made a first start for the Socceroos in a 1-0 friendly defeat by England at Wembley, where Baccus played another 90 minutes, while Cyprus’ Alex Gogic came up against Norway superstar Erling Haaland, albeit suffering a 4-0 defeat.
Ahead of the cinch Premiership game at Ross County on Saturday, where Saints will look to end a three-match winless-run although they remain behind second-placed Rangers on goal difference, Robinson said: “Keanu Baccus, Ryan Strain, Conor McMenamin and Alex Greive and Goga, who played against Haaland as well.
“They come back with those experiences, the confidence of a first international goal (for McMenamin). Ryan nearly scored a goal and Keanu’s performance was excellent so they are coming back full of confidence.
“They are bringing that buzz back to the players. The players are full of chat and buzz, they want to know about this player and that player. ‘What was he like, what did he say, what was he like on the ball?’
“The boys were talking about Phil Foden and how good he was and how good his close control was also. That is a real buzz around the place and it lifts everybody, gives everybody a boost and also the fact they boys have gone and held their own.
“St Mirren players are going on to the international stage and making an impact.
“It shows the level of quality of player we have at the club and it is testament to recruitment and it helps in future recruitment because they are being recognised at international level playing for St Mirren, they don’t need to be at the bigger clubs to be recognised.”
Malky Mackay’s Ross County are second bottom of the table, without a win in four games in all competitions, but Robinson expects a typically tough test.
The Northern Irishman said: “They have some very good individuals.
“Malky’s teams are always well organised. They are a big threat from long throws and set plays.
“They have signed a lot of talented players and it is fine margins in games that go your way or don’t go your way.
“Some haven’t gone Ross County’s way this season so far, but certainly there is not a huge gap between the quality among any level in this division outwith maybe the top two.”
