Mitchell has 'unfinished business' after returning to St Johnstone

Zach Mitchell feels he has "unfinished business" at St Johnstone after returning for a second spell on loan from Charlton Athletic. The 21-year-old defender started last season on loan at Hibernian but was recalled by the Championship club in January after having made only two appearances. Mitchell had joined St Johnstone the previous February and played 10 times, seven of them starts, as the Perth side suffered relegation from the Scottish Premiership. The Bromley-born defender came through Charlton's youth ranks and previously played 28 times on loan to Colchester United in League Two. "I am extremely excited," he told Saints media. "I have been at the club before and I thoroughly enjoyed my time when I was here. "To be honest, I fell in love with the place – and the fans as well. Their support was always amazing. "I also enjoyed how the gaffer [Simo Valakari] works and that was a big part in me coming back to Perth. I really enjoy his style and philosophy and, after speaking to him, I know we can be competitive this year and push on." St Johnstone are preparing for their first year back in the Premiership after winning the Championship. "I was gutted last time to not be able to see the season out due to injury, so I almost feel I have unfinished business here," added Mitchell. "I want to hit the ground running. "I know my body and my game better. I am really positive and optimistic about the season ahead."