Canero ...We Have High Expectations

Peter Canero has been given the number 11 jersey for the season ahead, which may indicate that Jim Jeffries sees the 22-year-old’s future on the left side of the field.

"I don’t know if there is any significance about the jersey, but perhaps it’s because I finished up last season playing on the left as a wing-back. The manager likes me playing out there and likes me to get forward and come in from the left.

"It’s no big deal to me which side I am playing on, as long as I am playing."

Canero on the recurrence of a groin injury. 

"I have had a niggling groin strain for about two years or so, and it got worse during pre-season training. I was in Italy with the squad but couldn’t make it on the trip down to England.

"I have had anti-inflammatory injections, but basically I have to rest. The manager’s given me a couple of weeks off with instructions to rest so hopefully it’s not a long term thing and will clear up in a couple of weeks."

Canero on the Upcoming Season...

"No one really expected us to do as well as we did last year, so there was no real pressure on us. The way we started off was also a bit shaky, probably because we were getting used to each other, but once we hit December we just seemed to reach a new level.

"Now we have to have high expectations of ourselves. We must make sure we get into the top six and then go for that third place and guarantee a place in Europe."

Canero on his personal ambitions...

"I am delighted to have been part of the Scotland under-21 set-up," said Canero, "and when I was given the chance in the future team I think I did well, so obviously I would love to be given the chance with the full international side."

"But club duty comes first, even if it means sitting in the stand". 

"We are all just anxious to get back to playing and it doesn’t matter who the first game is against. We had a tough pre-season training and we are mentally and physically prepared for it. "

"We all know we have to play the Old Firm some time, and I think the best time to play them is early on, as we showed on the first day last year. We have got nothing to lose going to Ibrox, and everyone is fresh and ready to go, so maybe we could spring a wee surprise."