St Johnstone boss Simo Valakari is enjoying the challenge of managing in the Scottish Premiership but admits it is a "tough life".

The former Finland midfielder, who spent four years at Motherwell as a player, guided the Perth Saints to promotion last season following relegation in 2025.

They have applied themselves well on their return to the top flight, taking 11 points from their opening eight league games as they sit fifth in the table.

"I'm enjoying it, but it's a tough life, you know," Valakari said. "Every match, it's so tough. But as I said, we worked so hard to get back here and it would be stupid not to enjoy it.

"We are enjoying it but at the same time, we are very realistic, very humble, knowing how tough it is, and that's why every match for us it's like our unique opportunity to show ourselves.

"[To] show what kind of club we are, what kind of team we are, and so far our players have been very good."