Reece Devine says he had ‘a few options’ before choosing St Johnstone move

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Manchester United youngster Reece Devine made his competitive debut at the weekend for St Johnstone against Ross County.

Devine won a penalty in only for his teammate Ali McCann to miss, and St Johnstone had to settle for a 0-0 draw.

Speaking to Not The Old Firm after the draw, Devine said he was pleased to make the move to the Scottish Premiership side.

He also said that he had various offers on the table before deciding St Johnstone were the best option.

Devine, 19, said: “It’s a lot more physical compared to reserve team football. I had a few options, but this one attracted me the most as it is the top Scottish league and I can develop things in my game that I haven’t got already.

“Fitness, I’m getting fitter and stronger every day, positive to get another 90 minutes.”

The youngster’s comments hint that other options may have been from English clubs lower down the league ladder. A Premier League loan would have been too early for him and would not have been forthcoming.

Part of the attraction was also likely the chance to play European football.

St Johnstone have a Europa League qualifier against Galatasaray this week.

Devine’s second ever professional game will be in Turkey. He said of the challenge: “That’s great that’s what football is all about.

“We are going to go there and be ourselves and play the football we know we can.”

Devine played at left wing-back in a 3-5-2 formation and will be expected to contribute in attack and defence.

He explained he has already had a visit from United staff who travelled to Scotland to check he was settled in. There is a long season ahead, but he has made a strong start just one game in.

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