The Saints manager insists his club are often fighting against clubs with stronger finances in the Scottish Premiership.
Stephen Robinson revealed he has little sympathy for Hibs after their European mauling at the hands of Aston Villa. That’s because the Saints boss feels he has to fight against the financial odds virtually every week in Paisley.
Hibs boss Lee Johnson was quick to point out the massive disparity in playing budgets between the Easter Road club and the Villans after Wednesday night’s 5-0 thumping in Leith. But Robinson feels St Mirren have to upset the apple cart against bigger clubs more often than not in the Scottish Premiership - including this weekend’s visit of Aberdeen. The Dons have splashed the cash over the summer as they look to be a force in Scotland and the continent this season. Robinson insists his players are full of confidence for the test as they look to make it an impressive seven wins on the spin on Sunday. When asked if Hibs were fighting a losing battle against cash-rich Aston Villa, Robinson told Renfrewshire Live Sport: “We do that every week!“We see it in the SPFL. You have to find a way to bridge the gap. We’ve managed to do that over the last 18 months and I’m sure Lee will feel the same. “Eventually they’ll want to find a way to compete at that level. It’s their first European campaign for some time. “Scottish clubs are just making their way in Europe. It’s true, the financial disparity between Aston Villa and Hibs is vast. “But in every league there are two or three clubs with that advantage and as a manager you have to find a way to make up for it and get surprise results at times. “We’ve had six wins in a row and the confidence is there. We still believe as a group we can be better.“We go into the Aberdeen game with confidence and we don’t fear anyone at home.“But it’s a challenge we feel we can step up to.” While the Buddies are still recovering from a significant seven-figure loss announced earlier this year, the Paisley club are steering themselves back to safer financial waters this season. The coffers have been boosted by record attendances at the SMiSA in recent months, with Robinson hopeful the additional revenue will help to progress the club over the next few years.“In percentage terms it’s a huge improvement and the club is moving forward. “We have to move forward within our means and not fast track things, but we’ll chip away at it again and leave the club in a good position.“There’s no magic wand but the fans are turning up in their numbers and I believe we are putting together an exciting squad.Don't miss the latest Renfrewshire headlines –sign up to our free daily newsletter here
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