Saints’ new boy Phillips is keen to seize the spotlight

ST JOHNSTONE new boy Daniel Phillips admits a debut against Rangers in a sweltering 4-0 defeat at Ibrox felt like a ‘baptism of fire’. The 21-year-old midfielder impressed on a week-long trial and signed a two-year contract earlier this week. The former Watford youngster was urged to give Scottish football a crack by former team-mates Joseph Hungbo and Daniel Bachmann. And an injury to Cammy MacPherson gave the Trinidad and Tobago international an early opportunity to impress despite a draining defeat at a sun-baked Ibrox. ‘That’s exactly what I said to the gaffer — it was a baptism of fire,’ said Phillips. ‘But these are the games you want to be involved in. The biggest crowd I’d have played in before would have been half that size probably. ‘I really enjoyed it. I felt comfortable. It was quicker than expected coming on, but you’ve got to be prepared. ‘I was ready to go. I always back myself to get on the ball and make things happen. That’s something I’ll try to do whatever the circumstances.’ Phillips spent last season on loan at Gillingham and earned a contract at McDiarmid Park after performing well in a bounce game. ‘When the chance arose to train with St Johnstone I thought it was definitely something I should come and see for myself and try my best to stay here,’ he added. ‘I know the league and the quality of it. ‘There were a few people who were at Gillingham last year who have played in Scotland. And a few at Watford as well. ‘I spoke to Jo Hungbo, Daniel Bachmann and Olly Lee. All of them spoke highly of the league. ‘They told me that I would fit in, that it’s a quality league and that if I played well I’d be seen. I definitely think it will suit me. ‘There are lots of positives in coming here. The opportunity to step up the ladder and make a name for yourself is one of them.’ Earning a yellow card in his first appearance, the midfielder’s bizarre coming-together with referee Nick Walsh broke up a promising attacking move and summed up St Johnstone’s late collapse. ‘It’s part of my game — getting involved and being physical,’ he said. ‘It’s something I’m going to have to learn to keep a lid on. ‘Today after I got my first booking it showed that I am learning — when to go and when to stand.’