SPFL Spotlight

St Johnstone host Motherwell in a Friday night fixture at McDiarmid Park, that is being shown live on BT Sport with a 7.45pm kick-off.

The SPFL Spotlight this week falls on legendary Saints striker Roddy Grant, who is still involved at the Perth club.
 
What’s the best goal you have ever scored?
That came in 1990 when St Johnstone defeated Aberdeen 5-0.  I was never really known for my pace but that day I got the ball on the halfway line and just ran and ran towards the Aberdeen goal. When I got to about 25 yards out I smashed a shot past Theo Snelders. It was a very memorable goal on what was a great day for the club.
 
What’s the best game you have played in?
That was a home game for St Johnstone against Airdrie earlier in 1990. The two sides were neck and neck fighting for the First Division title in what was our first year at McDiarmid Park. They were top of the table and took the lead through Stevie Gray. However, after that we battered them in front of a full house and won 3-1. I got a goal, as did Kenny Ward and Mark Treanor. There were still a few games to go but that result really won us the league.
 
What was your favourite away ground?
I enjoyed playing at Tynecastle as there was always a tremendous atmosphere. The fans are right on top of you and that helps generate the excitement that spreads in games there. I also really enjoyed playing at Tannadice as I grabbed a good few goals there.
 
What is your favourite other sport?
I enjoy watching golf, and playing it really badly!
 
Which player in the world would you liked to have played alongside?
That has to be Cristiano Ronaldo. He is a great player and has been for a great length of time as well. He has everything a player could want – height, pace, strength and can score goals as well.
 
What was your favourite pre-match meal?
Toast and poached eggs.
 
What is your favourite music?
My favourite song of all time is ‘Let’s Go Round Again’ by the Average White Band. My favourite singer is probably Billy Joel, who I have seen live a couple of times. Anyone who can play a piano and sing is good for me.
 
Who is the biggest moaner you played with?
That has to be Paul Kane when he played here at St Johnstone. He was a very decent player and a really hard working team-mate but he liked a moan.
 
Who was your most skilful team-mate?
That has to be ‘Del Boy’ – John O’Neil. He was under-rated by a lot of people but I liked playing with him as he was a talent. He came to us from Dundee United and had everything – a two-footed player who could glide past opposing players effortlessly. He also worked hard at his game and he knew how to hurt teams.
 
Who was the worst-dressed team-mate?
Attila Sekerlioglu just wins it ahead of the Miguel Simao. Attila would dress like someone out of the dark ages. At the end of every game he would carry out a ritual of cheerleading with the fans - we reckoned he was out there asking for new clothes!
 
Who was the best trainer?
I will say myself and I am sure I will get a lot of backing for that!
 
Who was the best dancer?
I would say myself but Allan ‘Biscuits’ Preston deserves a mention. He has been dancing like a dad from a young age!

Craig Stewart