McCann praises Valakari ahead of Kilmarnock's league opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 1:12 PM

Last updated Aug 1, 2026

McCann praises Valakari ahead of Kilmarnock's league opener

Summary

Neil McCann, manager of Kilmarnock, expressed his admiration for Simo Valakari's work at St Johnstone as the teams prepare to meet in their league opener on Sunday at 2 pm. Valakari successfully led St Johnstone back to the Premiership after one season in the Championship but faced a setback by exiting the Premier Sports Cup at the group stage. McCann acknowledged the challenges Valakari faced following relegation and praised his commitment to a distinctive playing style. Kilmarnock aims for a strong start after finishing 10th last season, with McCann anticipating a tough match against St Johnstone.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Kilmarnock faces St Johnstone in the league opener
•Game scheduled for Sunday at 2 pm
•Valakari earned promotion back to the Premiership last season
•Kilmarnock looks to improve on a 10th-place finish
•McCann anticipates a challenging match ahead

Latest Updates

1:12 PMYahoo Sports — McCann praises Valakari ahead of league opener

What they're saying

"
Kilmarnock gaffer Neil McCann admitted he has been impressed by the work Simo Valakari has done at St Johnstone, as the two sides prepare to meet in the league's opening weekend. The Finn brought St Johnstone straight back up from the Championship at the first time of asking last season, although they exited the Premier Sports Cup at the group stage. "Simo has done really well with the group," McCann said.
— Yahoo Sports

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