Haining hopes new additions can give Saints a lift

ST MIRREN defender Will Haining believes the Paisley side can set their sights higher up the Clydesdale Bank Premier League after adding experience to their squad.

Gus MacPherson has signed Steven Robb, Dennis Wyness, Jack Ross and former Rangers youngster Tom Brighton, while Spanish midfielder Antonio Guerao Mayoral Tonet, 29, arrived after a successful trial.

St Mirren improved their final position by one place last season after finishing above relegated Dunfermline in their debut campaign back in the top flight.

And Haining is optimistic that they can continue to improve with the help of the new players. "They are experienced players who have played in the SPL for a number of years," Haining said.

"So you know what you are getting, there is no gamble with them, and they have had a big influence in the dressing room.

"They know the game and there is competition for places now. We finished above Gretna and Kilmarnock and not far off Inverness so we will be looking to do the same and push on this season.

"The priority has been to stay in the league and that is still the priority. But hopefully with the additions that we have got, we can progress from last season."