Leaving your family for long spells can't be great but Michael Duberry thinks it is worth it for another year playing in Perth.

Michael Duberry 1
Michael Duberry has decided to give St Johnstone another year of his time after manager Derek McInnes used his persuasive powers to get a deal done. McInnes thought there was little chance of  getting a new contract agreed with the former Chelsea defender to extend his stay at McDiarmid Park as Duberry was keen to move nearer his family in the south of England. But, following extensive talks between McInnes and the Duberry family, the Saints manager's powers of persuasion have paid dividends.

Duberry, who impressed in the second half of the season after joining the club in February, said: "I really enjoyed my time with Saints last season and it was no secret that my biggest dilemma was my family situation. However, I've spoken at great length to the gaffer and my wife and we have mapped out a way forward and will make it work the best we can. I'm in the twilight years of my career and the opportunity to get a full season in the SPL and experience the stadiums and crowds which come with that is very appealing to me. I reckon I have been around 80% fit so far after only getting limited action at Wycombe before joining Saints and so I'm keen to get a good pre-season and start the campaign fit and fresh. Maybe not a 'new-and-improved' me - I would need to take 10 years off for that to happen - but certainly fitter and ready to give my all."

For his part, McInnes said: "The big thing we had in our favour was I knew how much Michael was enjoying it here. He is a good pro and he will do things properly when he does get time back home. I've no worries on that score."

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