Family focus for Alex Gogic as Paisley favourite celebrates long-term contract

Alex Gogic yesterday dedicated his new long-term deal at St Mirren to his family.

The Buddies favourite is devoted to fiancée Chloe and kids Milan, five, and Alesia, three, who go to all the games.

Cypriot international Gogic has signed a three-year contract extension at the SMiSA Stadium following a stellar campaign at centre-back and the Saints star admits it is a reward for those who are closest to him.

“I’ve been brought up with a close, tight family and I’m doing the same with my own family,” the 30-year-old said.

“I think it’s very important for them to know that. They are with me the whole time, even when things are down.

“My missus is there next to me, putting up with things when they’re not always bright or happy. So, it’s always nice and rewarding when we win that we can celebrate together, especially for my son. I think that will help him fall in love with football.

“Family is very important [when things are not so good]. They are the people next to you who tell you, ‘It’s not over, keep going’. They know your worth and are always positive even when you are negative.”

Fans are thrilled Gogic is staying and their star man added: “My Twitter has been busy! It’s nice to get those messages.”

Meanwhile, Gogic admits the prospect of playing European football next season was a key factor in committing his future to St Mirren.

Fifth-placed Buddies are five points clear of Dundee in the race for a Europa Conference League spot.

A win over Kilmarnock on Saturday will seal a Euro return for Saints for the first time in 37 years – but it will also be a case of job done if the Dark Blues fail to beat Hearts at Tynecastle.

Gogic knows it’s not over yet – but recognises there is a golden opportunity for the club in the coming days. He said: “I’ve had a bit of a taste of it with Hibs.

“It’s not yet mathematically secure but hopefully we can nail it down soon. That was definitely one of the reasons I wanted to stay.

“I really feel like this is a club going places, 100 percent. Even with our talks, they did everything they could to keep me happy and my family happy.

“I’m very grateful for that. The vice-chairman, Jim Gillespie, was a big part of that, so were the gaffer and his staff.”

Gogic praised the work of boss Stephen Robinson and added: “With the gaffer, I really think this club is definitely going in the right direction.”

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