Simon Lappin yesterday signed a two-year contract at St Johnstone, turning down a potential move to Major League Soccer in the United States.

The 31-year-old was released by Cardiff City in May without making a single competitive appearance for the Welsh club, spending part of last season on loan at Sheffield United.

The midfielder began his career at St Mirren and has also since spent time on loan at Motherwell. "Simon had other offers, including one of maybe moving to the MLS," said Tommy Wright, the St Johnstone manager.

"We were right in there when he and his wife decided they wanted to bring the family back to Scotland."