JOE SHAUGHNESSY says that Jim Goodwin's lofty ambitions for St Mirren were key to his move to the club after agreeing a two-year deal with the Paisley club.

The former Aberdeen and St Johnstone defender sealed the move back north after leaving Southend United earlier this summer.

"The manager really sold the club to me," Shaughnessy said. "His ambition came across really well any time I spoke to him and it made me feel like there is something starting here and I want to be a part of it."

Goodwin was delighted to land his man after a long pursuit, believing his experience and leadership skills can be real assets to his team as they try to improve on last season's ninth-placed Premiership finish.

"We have been in constant dialogue with Joe since he left Southend United and we are delighted that we have been able to get him signed up," said Goodwin.

"He is a fantastic leader and a really good character as well. He’s got fantastic experience in the Scottish Premiership already and played a huge part in St Johnstone’s success in recent years.

"All these boys we are bringing in fit a certain profile and Joe ticks every box.”