While many fans look at the recent failures to get youth players through the academy, there is a glint of hope in the future.
Alan Blayney and Chris Baird have received their second call up to the Northern Irish Under 21 squad.
Youth Call Ups
Blayney is a promising goalkeeper who is expected to be Saints goalkeeper of the future if he continues at the pace he is.
Chris Baird has been a professional a bit longer. He has yet to make his Saints debut but consistently impresses in the reserves. The next couple of years are important ones for Baird if he is to push through into the first team.
Chris Baird has been a professional a bit longer. He has yet to make his Saints debut but consistently impresses in the reserves. The next couple of years are important ones for Baird if he is to push through into the first team.
Jason Dodd is the only out and out full back ahead of him, so Baird should have plenty of incentive.