LIVINGSTON boss Roberto Landi reckons he needs at least three new players before he has a competitive squad.
The Italian quickly learned how there is a lot more to Scottish football than kick and rush in the team's 2-0 defeat to St Johnstone in the opening fixture of this season's First Division campaign.
The Saints were clinical without being outstandin
g at home, and the Lions are going to have rely on more than stringing a few passes together if they are to live up to the expectations raised as Angelo Massone and Co took control of the West Lothian outfit.
Landi, who was today preparing his squad for tomorrow night's CIS Cup game at home to East Stirlingshire, said: "I need two or three more players with experience to make up my team, and perhaps some more.
"We are looking at new players and thinking about what type of player we need. I don't think you will see the real Livingston until the beginning of September." Landi also defended his actions after refusing to shake hands with Saints boss Derek McInnes after the game.
He said: "In 15 years of management I have never received so much abuse from opposing coaches. I am a gentleman and I cannot understand why. They questioned every decision, why? There is one referee and two linesmen. But I should have shaken his hand, I apologised to him afterwards."
Skipper Chris Innes today defended Landi and also had words of encouragement for teenage goalkeeper Pierre-Antoine Martini, who suffered a torrid afternoon in Perth.
Innes said: "The comments being made by the opposition dug-out were seemingly very childish. The gaffer was disappointed with the way they conducted themselves.
"As for Pierre, I think the language barrier will be a big problem. However, he is a young lad and I'm sure with a bit of guidance he will be fine.
"He is new to the game in this country. I went to America, an English-speaking country, and I know what it's like trying to settle in."
The full article contains 350 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
