Steven Anderson
{{short description|Scottish footballer}}
{{other people||Stephen Anderson (disambiguation)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2021}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Steven Anderson
| image =
| fullname = Steven James Stuart Anderson
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1985|12|19}}
| birth_place = Edinburgh, Scotland
| height =
| currentclub = Broxburn Athletic
| clubnumber =
| position = Defender
| youthyears1 = 2001–2004
| youthclubs1 = Dundee United
| years1 = 2004–2020
| clubs1 = St Johnstone
| caps1 = 364
| goals1 = 15
| years2 = 2019
| clubs2 = → Partick Thistle (loan)
| caps2 = 13
| goals2 = 2
| years3 = 2019–2020
| clubs3 = → Raith Rovers (loan)
| caps3 = 8
| goals3 = 0
| years4 = 2020–2022
| clubs4 = Forfar Athletic
| caps4 = 20
| goals4 = 2
| years5 = 2022–2023
| clubs5 = Berwick Rangers
| caps5 = 2
| goals5 = 0
| years6 = 2023–2024
| clubs6 = Crossgates Primrose
| caps6 = 14
| goals6 = 1
| years7 = 2024
| clubs7 = Broxburn Athletic
| caps7 =
| goals7 =
| club-update = 22:46, 8 May 2022 (UTC)
}}
Steven James Stuart Anderson (born 19 December 1985) is a Scottish footballer who plays for Broxburn Athletic. Anderson plays in central defence.
Club career
=Early career=
Anderson's senior career in football began when he stepped up from Dalkeith Boys Club to sign for Dundee United in January 2001.{{cite news|title=Player Biography Steven Anderson|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/team/steven-anderson|publisher=St Johnstone FC|accessdate=12 September 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918192614/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/team/steven-anderson|archive-date=18 September 2016|url-status=dead}} Anderson progressed for three years at The Tangerines, where he impressed the Dundee United's academy and eventually became captain at one point.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/738/JARVIE-IN-GOAL-FOR-UNDER-21S-.html|title=JARVIE IN GOAL FOR UNDER-21'S|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=19 November 2001|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250201080228/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/738/JARVIE-IN-GOAL-FOR-UNDER-21S-.html|archive-date=1 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/700/PAUL-HEGARTY-PREVIEWS-YOUTH-CUP-TIE.html|title=PAUL HEGARTY PREVIEWS YOUTH CUP TIE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=22 November 2001|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250127080951/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/700/PAUL-HEGARTY-PREVIEWS-YOUTH-CUP-TIE.html|archive-date=27 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/900/MAURICE-DELIGHTED-WITH-UNDER-21S-DESPITE-DEFEAT.html|title=MAURICE DELIGHTED WITH UNDER-21'S DESPITE DEFEAT|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=5 March 2002|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250127080629/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/900/MAURICE-DELIGHTED-WITH-UNDER-21S-DESPITE-DEFEAT.html|archive-date=27 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/931/OPPORTUNITY-TO-GAIN-EXPERIENCE.html|title=OPPORTUNITY TO GAIN EXPERIENCE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=3 April 2002|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250127075908/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/931/OPPORTUNITY-TO-GAIN-EXPERIENCE.html|archive-date=27 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1368/UNDER-19s-LOSE-NARROWLY-TO-HIBS.html|title=UNDER-19s LOSE NARROWLY TO HIBS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=8 November 2003|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250127075527/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1368/UNDER-19s-LOSE-NARROWLY-TO-HIBS.html|archive-date=27 January 2025|url-status=live}} However, Anderson failed to make a first team breakthrough at the Tangerines that led him to be released by the club in the summer of 2004. {{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1323/UNDER-21s-HAVE-TO-SETTLE-FOR-A-POINT.html|title=UNDER-21s HAVE TO SETTLE FOR A POINT|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=15 September 2003|access-date=11 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250201080227/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1323/UNDER-21s-HAVE-TO-SETTLE-FOR-A-POINT.html|archive-date=1 February 2025|url-status=live}}
Anderson joined Rangers on trial, but the club decided against signing him.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson relishing Cup chance after being dumped|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-relishing-974666|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=18 April 2008|accessdate=7 June 2014}} He then went on trial with St Johnstone and played in a reserve game against Forfar Athletic and in a First Division match against St Mirren on 21 August 2004. His performance convinced the Saints' manager John Conolly to sign Anderson on a contract until the end of the season.{{cite news|title=Saints and Clyde in swap|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/3595588.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=25 August 2004|accessdate=7 June 2014}}{{cite news|title=Anderson hoping to go one better than last year on visit to Hampden|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12462911.anderson-hoping-go-one-better-last-year-visit-hampden/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 April 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}} Along the way, he learned from Jim Weir and considered him as a mentor, stating: "I learned a lot from Jim. He used to have me out on the training ground on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons for extra training."{{cite news|title=Brechin City v St Johnstone FC: Steven Anderson out to plot downfall of former mentor Jim Weir|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/brechin-city-v-st-johnstone-fc-steven-anderson-out-to-plot-downfall-of-former-mentor-jim-weir-1.40924|publisher=The Courier|date=12 March 2011|accessdate=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714130620/http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/brechin-city-v-st-johnstone-fc-steven-anderson-out-to-plot-downfall-of-former-mentor-jim-weir-1.40924|archive-date=14 July 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson set to miss out on reunion with 'Ironman' mentor Jim Weir|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/223676/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-set-to-miss-out-on-reunion-with-ironman-mentor-jim-weir/|website=The Courier|date=16 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
=St Johnstone=
==Early career at St Johnstone==
Seven days after signing for the Saints, Anderson made his professional football debut, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 win over Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1-0 Raith Rovers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/3601336.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=28 August 2004|access-date=30 November 2024}} Shortly after, he became a first team regular for St. Johnstone. However, Anderson received a straight red card for a foul on Hamed Sacko with 10 minutes left, as the club lose 1–0 against Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 1–0 St Johnstone |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/3963479.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=30 October 2004|accessdate=7 June 2014}} Upon his return from suspension, he scored his first goal for St Johnstone, in a 4–0 win over Partick Thistle on 4 December 2004.{{cite news|title=Partick Thistle 0–4 St Johnstone |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/4063703.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=4 December 2004|accessdate=7 June 2014}} Anderson then scored his second goal of the season, in a 2–1 win over Raith Rovers on 12 March 2005.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 1–2 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/4338629.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=12 March 2005|accessdate=7 June 2014}} His contributions later helped the club avoid relegation, having finished eighth place in the league.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson knows there is work to be done if they are to steer clear of trouble|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/598550/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-knows-work-done-steer-clear-trouble/|website=The Courier|date=17 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} In his first season as a professional footballer, he went on to make twenty–three appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. Following this, Anderson signed a new deal with the Saints to keep him for another season.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone duo sign new deals|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/st_johnstone/4596101.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=31 May 2005|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
{{cite news|title=Partick Thistle sign veteran defender|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12490207.partick-thistle-sign-veteran-defender/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=31 May 2005|access-date=30 November 2024}}
In the 2005–06 season, Anderson would receive more playing time under the new management of Owen Coyle.{{cite news|title=Dreich derby as Tayside clubs' first division fates are encapsulated in McDiarmid draw|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12445438.dreich-derby-tayside-clubs-first-division-fates-encapsulated-mcdiarmid-draw/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 January 2006|access-date=30 November 2024}} He went to finish his second season, making twenty–eight appearances in all competitions. When the 2005–06 season was concluded, Anderson signed a new contract with St Johnstone.{{cite news|title=Sheridan pens new Saints contract|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/st_johnstone/5039146.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=1 June 2006|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
{{cite news|title=Coyle lures Lawrie to McDiarmid Park|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12432068.coyle-lures-lawrie-mcdiarmid-park/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=16 June 2006|access-date=30 November 2024}}
In the 2006–07 season, Anderson continued to be a first team regular under manager Coyle, where he developed further as a defender. He was part of the starting eleven for St Johnstone when the Saints won 2–0 victory over Rangers at Ibrox to reach the semi-finals of the Scottish League Cup, giving the club their first win over the Glasgow club at Ibrox in 35 years.{{cite news|title=Le Guen: 'I will try to carry on' Can club's season be saved?|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12493855.le-guen-i-will-try-carry-on-can-clubs-season-saved/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=8 November 2006|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_cups/6123792.stm|title=Rangers 0–2 St Johnstone|publisher=BBC News|date=8 November 2006|access-date=30 November 2024}} However in the second–half of the season, Anderson was out on two separate occasions with suspension, including a second bookable offence against Partick Thistle on 14 March 2007.{{cite news|title=Coyle may have to draft in Milne in player crisis|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12758250.coyle-may-draft-milne-player-crisis/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=27 February 2007|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=All Saints sorrow can be traced to Morrow as Jags break hoodoo|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/12823591.all-saints-sorrow-can-be-traced-to-morrow-as-jags-break-hoodoo/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=14 March 2007|access-date=30 November 2024}} He helped St Johnstone reached the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup thanks to away wins against SPL clubs Falkirk and Motherwell, but lost 2–1 to Celtic at Hampden in the semi-final.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 0–3 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/6322731.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=3 February 2007|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|last=Moffat|first=Colin|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_cups/6550697.stm|title=St Johnstone 1–2 Celtic|publisher=BBC News|date=14 April 2007|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2006 –07 season, Anderson went on to make thirty–two appearances in all competitions. Following this, he signed another new one-year contract with the club.{{cite news|title=Young pair handed Saints deals|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/st_johnstone/6627227.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=4 May 2007|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
The 2007–08 season saw the departure of manager Coyle and was succeeded by Derek McInnes Anderson continued to remain a first team regular despite facing competitions.{{cite news|title=McInnes applauds his players after coming so close|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12462953.mcinnes-applauds-players-coming-close/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=22 April 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}} For his performance, he signed an extended contract on a two-year deal with St Johnstone.{{cite news|title=New Deal For St Johnstone Kid Anderson|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/new-deal-for-st-johnstone-kid-960268|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=12 October 2007|accessdate=7 June 2014}} Anderson started in the Scottish Challenge Cup final and played 80 minutes before being substituted, as he helped the Saints beat Dunfermline Athletic to win the Scottish Challenge Cup.{{cite web|title=Dunfermline Ath 2–3 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/7110899.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=25 November 2007|accessdate=12 September 2016}} At the end of the 2007–08 season, Anderson made twenty–eight appearances in all competitions.
Ahead of the 2008–09 season, Anderson suffered an ankle injury in a pre-season friendly., causing him to the start of the season.{{cite news|title=INJURIES PICKED UP IN LATEST GAME|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/post/68|publisher=St Johnstone FC|date=12 July 2008|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918175948/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/post/68|archive-date=18 September 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/69|title=SAINTS GEAR UP FOR HIGHLAND TRIP|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124140039/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/69|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} On 23 August 2008 he returned to the starting line–up, losing 4–0 against Partick Thistle.{{cite news|title=Partick Thistle 4-0 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7575858.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=23 August 2007|access-date=30 November 2024}} Upon returning from injury, Anderson's first team opportunities were limited as he was behind Kevin Rutkiewicz, Stuart McCaffrey, Gary Irvine and Graham Gartland for a first team place.{{cite news|title=Johnston: We have to make our Mark now|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/12810806.johnston-we-have-to-make-our-mark-now/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=31 July 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/162|title=A CHANCE TO RE-GROUP|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025065809/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/162|archive-date=25 October 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/202|title=DEFENSIVE CHANGE INEVITABLE ON SATURDAY|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124140558/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/202|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} But Anderson was able to prove himself when he was fit enough for a place on the bench and came on to good effect in matches against Dunfermline Athletic and Ross County as a substitute.{{cite news|title=Dumferline Athletic 1–2 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7701252.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=1 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–1 Ross County|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7713159.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=8 November 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/263|title=KEVIN TO GET RUN OUT IN RESERVE FIXTURE|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124124541/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/263|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} However, Anderson suffered ankle injury and had to be substituted in the 61st minute, as St Johnstone won 1–0 against Clyde on 27 December 2008.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 - 0 Clyde|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12375451.st-johnstone-1---0-clyde/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 December 2008|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, he suffered an ankle injury that kept him out for three months.{{cite news|title=MOON EXTENDS CONTRACT AS SAINTS HEAD TO GREENOCK|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=276|publisher=St Johnstone FC|date=30 January 2009|access-date=7 June 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714175947/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=276|archive-date=14 July 2014}} On 4 April 2009 Anderson returned injury, coming on as a 74th-minute substitute in a 1–1 draw against Partick Thistle.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–1 Partick Thistle|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7980248.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=4 April 2009|access-date=30 November 2024}} Anderson was part of St Johnstone's promotion squad when the club secured promotion to the Scottish Premier League after beating Greenock Morton to end their seven-year stint in the First Division.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3–1 Greenock Morton|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/8028043.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 May 2009|access-date=30 November 2024}} On the last game of the season, he scored his first goal for St Johnstone in four years, in a 4–0 win over Airdrieonians.{{cite news|title=Division One: Airdrie United 0 St Johnstone 4|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/division-one-airdrie-united-0-1022461|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=12 May 2009|accessdate=7 June 2014}} At the end of the 2008–09 season, Anderson made seventeen appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
==Playing in the Scottish Premiership==
At the start of the 2009–10 season, Anderson struggled to earn his place back in the first team, and didn't make his first appearance until on 22 September 2009 against Hibernian in the last 16 of the Scottish League Cup, where he started the whole game, in a 3–1 win.{{cite news|title=Hibernian 1 St Johnstone 3: Easter Road men pay penalty for Derek Riordan miss as Perth side avenge painful loss|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12613286.hibernian-1-st-johnstone-3-easter-road-men-pay-penalty-derek-riordan-miss-perth-side-avenge-painful-loss/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=22 September 2009|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/632|title=CHARACTER NEEDED TO GET BACK ON TRACK|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121055527/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/632|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=live}} A week later on 3 October 2009, Anderson scored his Scottish Premier League debut with a header, in a 2–0 against Hamilton Academical.{{cite news|title=Hamilton Academical 0 – 2 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/8285369.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=3 October 2009|accessdate=7 June 2014}} He scored again in the quarter final of the Scottish League Cup, in a 2–1 win against Dundee United.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–1 Dundee United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/8325947.stm|work=BBC Sport|date=27 October 2009|accessdate=7 June 2014}} His return form in the first team led to manager McInnes giving him more playing time and flourish playing alongside Michael Duberry.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/598|title=INJURY WORRIES AHEAD OF HEARTS GAME|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241123162859/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/598|archive-date=23 November 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Anderson looks to United clash|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/127942/st-johnstones-anderson-looks-to-united-clash/|website=The Courier|date=2 April 2010|access-date=11 February 2025}} However, Anderson suffered a knee injury and was substituted in the 28th minute, as the club lose 2–1 against Motherwell on 6 March 2010.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–2 Motherwell|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/8550852.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=6 March 2010|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Saints defender looking for pay-back|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/127778/saints-defender-looking-for-pay-back/|website=The Courier|date=16 March 2010|access-date=11 February 2025}} After missing four matches due to an injury, he made his return as a second–half substitute, in a 1–0 loss against Hamilton Academical on 27 March 2010.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/780|title=INJURY-HIT SAINTS BOLSTER SQUAD AHEAD OF CELTIC TRIP|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121060215/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/780|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Hamilton Academical 1–0 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/8588266.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=27 March 2010|access-date=30 November 2024}} On 23rd April 2010, Anderson signed a two-year contract extension with the Saints, keeping him until 2012.{{cite news|title=Saints duo sign new deals|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/6110696/saints-duo-sign-new-deals|publisher=Sky Sports|date=23 April 2010|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714165358/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/6110696/saints-duo-sign-new-deals|archive-date=14 July 2014|url-status=dead}} At the end of the 2009–10 season, he went on to make nineteen appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.
In the opening game of the 2010–11 season, however, Anderson received a straight red card for "scything" down on Suso Santana, in a 1–1 draw against Hearts.{{cite news|title=Ten Man Saints Battle for Opening Day Point|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/post/980|publisher=St Johnstone FC|date=14 August 2010|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918192617/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/post/980|archive-date=18 September 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/992|title=MAYBURY READY TO FACE ABERDEEN IF REQUIRED|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241112193234/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/992|archive-date=12 November 2024|url-status=live}} In a match against Dundee United on 26 September 2010, he came on as a 64th-minute-substitute and was given a second yellow card by the referee, Brian Winter in the space of 12 minutes, but it was not followed by a red and the defender remained on the pitch, causing the match to make national headlines.{{cite news|title=Dundee United 1–0 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9028892.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=26 September 2010|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/top-whistler-brian-winter-faces-1070964|title=Top whistler Brian Winter faces SFA probe after yellow card blunder at Tannadice|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=26 September 2010|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715060226/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/top-whistler-brian-winter-faces-1070964|archive-date=15 July 2014|url-status=live}} After the match, Anderson was later banned for three match by the Scottish Football Association's disciplinary committee.{{cite news|title=Anderson ban confirmed|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/6416848/anderson-ban-confirmed|publisher=Sky Sports|date=30 September 2010|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714195953/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/6416848/anderson-ban-confirmed|archive-date=14 July 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1462|title=PLAYERS DETERMINED TO TURN THE CORNER|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 November 2010|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120075126/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1462|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1044|title=ANDERSON RECEIVES BAN FOR TANNADICE 'SENDING OFF'|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124141724/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1044|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} He had to wait until on 10 November 2010 to make his first team return, in a 4–0 loss against Motherwell.{{cite news|title=Motherwell 4–0 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9172885.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=10 November 2010|access-date=30 November 2024}} Anderson regained his first team place, forming a central defensive partnership with Michael Duberry for the rest of the 2010–11 season.{{cite news|title=Stuart McCaffrey departs McDiarmid Park|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/103466/stuart-mccaffrey-departs-mcdiarmid-park/|website=The Courier|date=30 July 2010|access-date=11 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Flying St Johnstone come full circle|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/113219/flying-st-johnstone-come-full-circle/|website=The Courier|date=11 February 2011|access-date=11 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1470|title=DEFENSIVE PAIR FREE OF SUSPENSION|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241117161804/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1470|archive-date=17 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1478|title=PLENTY TO PLAY FOR AT PITTODRIE|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120081803/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1478|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1310|title=PATIENCE PAYS OFF FOR GRAHAM|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120081843/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1310|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}} Following the club's elimination in the semifinals of the Scottish Cup, both he and Duberry had to serve a suspension.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1451|title=SAINTS LOOKING TO BEGIN POST-SPLIT GAMES IN STYLE|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120151207/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1451|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1462|title=PLAYERS DETERMINED TO TURN THE CORNER|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120075126/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1462|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}} After serving their suspension, both Anderson and Duberry returned to the starting line–up and helped the Saints kept three consecutive clean sheets in the last three league matches of the season.{{cite news|title=Anniversary waltz as new glory sought|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13028724.anniversary-waltz-new-glory-sought/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=7 April 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 0–2 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9476489.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=7 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–0 Hamilton Academical|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9480347.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=10 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Mirren 0–0 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9484603.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=14 May 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2010–11 season, Anderson went on to make thirty–two appearances in all competitions. For his performance, he was named as St Johnstone's Player of the Year.{{cite news|title=PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS DINNER HAILED A SUCCESS|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1469|publisher=St Johnstone FC|date=2 May 2011|access-date=7 June 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714164715/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1469|archive-date=14 July 2014}}{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson admits he won't take his place in squad for granted ahead of new campaign|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-admits-1107855|website=Daily Record|date=12 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Following the departure of his defensive partner Duberry, Anderson started his 2011–12 season, appearing in the first two league games, forming a centre–back partnership with Frazer Wright.{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 0 St Johnstone 0: Visitors held by bottle of Foster's|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13033544.aberdeen-0-st-johnstone-0-visitors-held-bottle-fosters/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=24 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14321296.stm|title=St Johnstone 0–2 Rangers|website=BBC Sport|date=31 July 2011|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110731064124/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14321296.stm|archive-date=31 July 2011|url-status=live}} After missing three match, he returned to the first team, coming on as a 78th-minute substitute, in a 0–0 draw against St Mirren on 10 September 2011.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14773037.stm|title=St Mirren 0–0 St Johnstone|website=BBC Sport|date=10 September 2011|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110915232433/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14773037.stm|archive-date=15 September 2011|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1218|title=MANAGER'S THOUGHTS ON ST MIRREN DRAW|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121060535/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1218|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=live}} Following this, Anderson regained his first team place, continuing to be in a centre–back partnership with Frazer Wright.{{cite news|title=Rangers 0 St Johnstone 0: Anxiety attack|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13040417.rangers-0-st-johnstone-0-anxiety-attack/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 November 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 Kilmarnock 0: Francisco Sandaza's return marks end to run of home defeats|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13043601.st-johnstone-2-kilmarnock-0-francisco-sandazas-return-marks-end-run-home-defeats/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 December 2011|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1721|title=TIME LINE FROM RUGBY PARK|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241119102126/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1721|archive-date=19 November 2024|url-status=live}} He made his 200th appearance for St Johnstone against Kilmarnock on 1 October 2011, only for him to score an own goal, as the club went on to win 2–1. {{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/15045413.stm|title=Kilmarnock 1–2 St Johnstone|website=BBC Sport|date=1 October 2011|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003180142/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/15045413.stm|archive-date=3 October 2011|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1724|title=ANDO DELIGHTED WITH KILLIE WIN AND MILESTONE APPEARANCE|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124141922/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1724|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} Anderson then signed a two-year contract extension with the Saints, taking him to the end of the 2013–14 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1916|title=STEVEN ANDERSON PENS TWO YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124141744/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1916|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} A few weeks after signing the new contract, he scored his first goal of the season, in a 5–1 loss against Dundee United.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–5 Dundee United|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16884293|work=BBC Sport|date=12 February 2012|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215000924/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16921654|archive-date=15 February 2012|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1928|title=St Johnstone v Dundee United|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=12 February 2012|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241119101535/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1928|archive-date=19 November 2024|url-status=live}} After the match, Anderson said he wasn't impressed with the result and described the defeat as "embarrassing".{{cite news|title=St Johnstone stopper Steven Anderson: Dundee United thumping was embarrassing|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone-stopper-steven-anderson-1116641|work=BBC Sport|date=13 February 2012|accessdate=7 June 2014}} However, Anderson was out once again with a knee injury that he sustained, as the Saints were eliminated in the last 16 replay of the Scottish Cup against Hearts.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16921654|title=St Johnstone 1-2 Hearts (aet)|website=BBC Sport|date=14 February 2012|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215000924/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16921654|archive-date=15 February 2012|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone treatment room busy ahead of Aberdeen clash|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/109567/st-johnstone-treatment-room-busy-ahead-of-aberdeen-clash/|website=The Courier|date=16 February 2012|access-date=11 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1945|title=VITAL GAME TOMORROW AS TOP SIX BATTLE HOTS UP|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121055343/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1945|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1959|title=PREPARATION BEGINS FOR BATTLE OF THE SAINTS|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121060718/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/1959|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=live}} On 28 March 2012 Anderson returned from injury, coming on as a late substitute in a 1–0 win against Inverness Caledonian Thistle.{{cite web|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1979|title=FRAN GOAL IS ENOUGH TO SEND SAINTS INTO FOURTH|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=28 March 2012|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402221416/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1979|archive-date=2 April 2012|url-status=dead}} St Johnstone eventually qualified for a place in Europe despite finishing sixth place.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17288116|title=Premier League and Football League: Ups and downs|website=BBC Sport|date=27 May 2012|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120614132042/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17288116|archive-date=14 June 2012|url-status=dead}} At the end of the 2011–12 season, he made thirty–four appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
==Ninth season at St Johnstone==
Following the club's elimination in the UEFA Europa League, he continued to remain in the centre–back partnership with Frazer Wright.{{cite news|title=Ross County 1 St Johnstone 2: Mackay thinks taxing afternoon will pay dividends|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13074288.ross-county-1-st-johnstone-2-mackay-thinks-taxing-afternoon-will-pay-dividends/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=24 September 2012|access-date=30 November 2024}} Along the way, Anderson also played in the right–back position in absence of Dave Mackay.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone v Celtic: Steven Anderson has champions in his sights|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/86507/st-johnstone-v-celtic-steven-anderson-has-champions-in-his-sights/|website=The Courier|date=29 January 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=Dundee's civil war of no concern to St Johnstone's Dave Mackay|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/86988/dundees-civil-war-of-no-concern-to-st-johnstones-dave-mackay/|website=The Courier|date=26 February 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}}
After missing one match against Celtic on 11 November 2012, Anderson returned to the starting line–up, in a 1–1 draw against Ross County.{{cite news|title=Celtic 1 St Johnstone 1: Hoops suffer the Barcelona blues|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/13242855.celtic-1-st-johnstone-1-hoops-suffer-the-barcelona-blues/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=11 November 2012|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Ross County 1: honours even|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13081322.st-johnstone-1-ross-county-1-honours-even/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=17 November 2012|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, his return was short–lived when he received a straight red card for a foul on Lewis Guy before half time, as St Johnstone drew 1–1 with St Mirren.{{cite news|title=St Mirren 1 St Johnstone 1: Buddies salvage point against nine-man Saints|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-mirren-1-st-johnstone-1480664|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=9 December 2012|accessdate=7 June 2014}} After serving a one match suspension, Anderson returned to the starting line–up against Cowdenbeath in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup and set up of the goals, in a 4–0 win.{{cite news|title=Saints set for Cowden clash|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/13245565.saints-set-for-cowden-clash/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=17 December 2012|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Cowdenbeath 0 St Johnstone 3: Perth side ease through delayed tie to set up St Mirren meeting|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13085238.cowdenbeath-0-st-johnstone-3-perth-side-ease-delayed-tie-set-st-mirren-meeting/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 December 2012|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, his return was short–lived once again when he suffered an injury that kept him out for two months.{{cite news|title=Injuries are a cause for concern for St Johnstone|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/84802/injuries-are-a-cause-for-concern-for-st-johnstone/|website=The Courier|date=29 January 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}}
On 11 February 2013 Anderson returned to the starting line–up, playing at right–back in a 3–1 win against Hibernian.{{cite news|title=Hibernian 1 St Johnstone 3: vintage Vine grabs brace|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13091849.hibernian-1-st-johnstone-3-vintage-vine-grabs-brace/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=11 February 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}} He then made his 250th appearance for the Saints, coming on as a second–half substitute, in a 2–0 loss against Hearts on 5 March 2013.{{cite news|title=Hearts 2 St Johnstone 0: cheer for Tynecastle fans|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13094805.hearts-2-st-johnstone-0-cheer-tynecastle-fans/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=5 March 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2426|title=SAINTS LOOKING TO MAKE CAPITAL IN EDINBURGH|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120080157/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2426|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}} On the last game of the season, Anderson started the whole game against Motherwell and helped the Saints win 2–0 to seal third place finish in the league and qualify for Europe again.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–0 Motherwell|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22499166|work=BBC Sport|date=19 May 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613163423/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22499166|archive-date=13 June 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-match-reports/st-johnstone-2-motherwell-0-1900302|first=Gary|last=Ralston|work=Daily Record|title=St Johnstone 2 Motherwell 0: Liam Craig hands Saints the perfect parting gift as goal helps seal Euro spot|date=20 May 2013|accessdate=24 December 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140307052145/https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-match-reports/st-johnstone-2-motherwell-0-1900302|archive-date=7 March 2014|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2012–13 season, he went on to make thirty–three appearances in all competitions.
==Winning the Scottish Cup==
The start of the 2013–14 season when Anderson played in both legs, winning 2–1 against Norwegian side Rosenberg in the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round.{{cite news|title=Rosenborg 0 St Johnstone 1: Frazer Wright keeps Saints' Europa League hopes alive with crucial away goal|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-match-reports/rosenborg-0-st-johnstone-1-2063313|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=18 July 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Rosenborg 1: In danger of being deflated, but Perth side hold breath to live on|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13115528.st-johnstone-1-rosenborg-1-danger-deflated-perth-side-hold-breath-live/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=26 July 2013|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, he played in both legs in the UEFA Europa League third qualifying round against Minsk as the club were eliminated on penalties following a 1–1 draw on aggregate.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone lose to Minsk on penalties|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23527531|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 August 2013|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130810085128/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23527531|archive-date=10 August 2013|url-status=dead}} Following this, Anderson helped St Johnstone kept three consecutive clean sheets in the first three league matches of the season 2013.{{cite news|title=Scottish Premiership: Stevie May's goal enough for St Johnstone|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/299089/report|publisher=Sky Sports|date=4 August 2013|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130812153106/http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/299089/report|archive-date=12 August 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 0–0 St Johnstone|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23565304|website=BBC Sport|date=11 August 2013|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130814071849/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23565304|archive-date=14 August 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 4–0 Ross County|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23644634|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 August 2013|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130820031602/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23644634|archive-date=20 August 2013|url-status=dead}} After the club lose 2–1 against Hibernian on 14 September 2013, he suffered a knock but quickly made a full recovery.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23999508|title=St Johnstone 1–2 Hibernian|website=BBC Sport|date=14 September 2013|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130916063817/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23999508|archive-date=16 September 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2698|title=SAINTS TO BOUNCE BACK BY TAKING SOMETHING FROM CELTIC|website=St Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121184230/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2698|archive-date=21 November 2024|url-status=dead}}
However in a match against Partick Thistle on 28 September 2013, Anderson was substituted in the 7th minute after "he slipped and suffered a painful hand injury as Kris Doolan raced in for Thistle's sixth-minute opener".{{cite news|title=St Johnstone: Manager concerned for injured Steven Anderson|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24318960|work=BBC Sport|date=28 September 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928180448/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24318960|archive-date=28 September 2013|url-status=dead}} After going to hospital, it was announced that Anderson would be out for up to eight weeks following a lengthy operation for a dislocated thumb.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson faces eight weeks out after St Johnstone defender discloates thumb|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/8950339/steven-anderson-faces-eight-weeks-out-after-st-johnstone-defender-discloates-thumb|publisher=Sky Sports|date=2 October 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930171757/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/8950339/steven-anderson-faces-eight-weeks-out-after-st-johnstone-defender-discloates-thumb|archive-date=30 September 2013|url-status=dead}} He later described the injury as "the absolute agony, the worst pain I've had."{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender Steven Anderson faces two months out after freak injury|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-defender-steven-anderson-2325027|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=1 October 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014}} By early–December, Anderson recovered from injury and returned to training.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone injury boost for defender Steven Anderson|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25239539|work=BBC Sport|date=5 December 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206052751/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25239539|archive-date=6 December 2013|url-status=dead}} IOn 29 December 2013 he returned to the starting line–up against Dundee United and helped the club kept a clean sheet, in a 3–0 win.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3–0 Dundee United|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25482658|work=BBC Sport|date=29 December 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140101165744/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25482658|archive-date=1 January 2014|url-status=dead}} In a match against Hearts on 18 January 2014, Anderson received a straight red card in the 21st minute after a foul on Dale Carrick to deny him a goal scoring opportunity, as the match finished 3–3.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3 Hearts 3: Honours even at McDiarmid Park|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/250007/st-johnstone-3-hearts-3-honours-even-at-mcdiarmid-park/|website=The Courier|date=18 January 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}} After the match, St Johnstone successfully appealed the decision, allowing Anderson to be free to play.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone to appeal over Steven Anderson's red card|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25817234|work=BBC Sport|date=20 January 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122145527/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25817234|archive-date=22 January 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender Steven Anderson's red card overturned by SFA disciplinary tribunal|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-defender-steven-andersons-3054072|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=23 January 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
Following his return from injury, Anderson continued to remain in the centre–back partnership with Frazer Wright.{{cite news|title=Tommy Wright wants new high from his team|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/245230/tommy-wright-wants-new-high-from-his-team/|website=The Courier|date=10 April 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Inverness CT 2 St Johnstone 0: Caley claim fifth by sinking Saints|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/148727/inverness-ct-2-st-johnstone-0-caley-claim-fifth-by-sinking-saints/|website=The Courier|date=11 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Fine margins of victory lie on either side|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/other_football/13280965.fine-margins-of-victory-lie-on-either-side/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=17 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}} On 8 March 2014, he scored his first goal of the season, in the Scottish Cup quarter final, in a 3–1 win over Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 1–3 St Johnstone|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26396418|work=BBC Sport|date=8 March 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309020935/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26396418|archive-date=9 March 2014|url-status=dead}} During the same month, Anderson was asked by the Courier if he would choose between a top-six finish and Scottish Cup, he stated: "It would be a great achievement obviously to take St Johnstone into their first ever Scottish Cup final, but if you look at the start of the season you want to win silverware but the aim is to stay in this league and progress every season."{{cite news|title=Dundee United v St Johnstone: Anderson greedy for Saints success|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/234361/dundee-united-v-st-johnstone-anderson-greedy-for-saints-success/|website=The Courier|date=12 March 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}} The following month saw Anderson score two goals in two games against Kilmarnock and Dundee United.{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 1–2 St Johnstone|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26796708|work=BBC Sport|date=5 April 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140411150922/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/2679670|archive-date=11 April 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 Dundee United 0: Saints win and land a psychological blow ahead of Scottish Cup final|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone-2-dundee-united-3433131|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=19 April 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
On 17 May 2014, Anderson started in the Scottish Cup Final at Celtic Park against Dundee United and scored the first goal of the game, as St Johnstone won 2–0 to win the trophy for the first time.{{cite news|title=Big decision for Tommy Wright in midfield|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/149168/big-decision-for-tommy-wright-in-midfield/|website=The Courier|date=16 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Scottish Cup Final: St Johnstone 2 – 0 Dundee United|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27354162|work=BBC Sport|date=17 May 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519081843/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/2735416|archive-date=19 May 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/steven-anderson-reflects-on-2014-scottish-cup-win|title=Steven Anderson reflects on 2014 Scottish Cup win|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=17 May 2024|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240517110914/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/steven-anderson-reflects-on-2014-scottish-cup-win|archive-date=17 May 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson: Hopefully St Johnstone will have psychological hold over Hibs like 2014 team had over Dundee United|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/2233303/steven-anderson-st-johnstone-hibs-2014-dundee-united/|website=The Courier|date=19 May 2021|access-date=30 November 2024}} After the match, he dedicated the Scottish Cup win to the Saints owners (Geoff Brown and Steve Brown), saying: "They've run the club really well over the years and it was time they got their day. So it's great for them to get a bit of success. Every year we always think about getting a cup run."{{cite news|title=St Johnstone goal hero Steven Anderson dedicates historic Cup win to club owners Geoff and Steve Brown|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-hero-steven-anderson-3560596|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=18 May 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014}} National newspaper The Herald said about his performance, saying: "Guided a header inside the post to open the scoring on the stroke of half-time and defended well throughout."{{cite news|title=Scottish Cup Final ratings|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13160955.scottish-cup-final-ratings/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=17 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2013–14 season, he made thirty–nine appearances and scoring four times in all competitions. Following this, Anderson signed a new contract with the club on a two-year deal.{{cite news|title=Scottish Premiership: Steven Anderson, Gary Miller and Stevie Banks sign new contracts|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/9322820/scottish-premiership-steven-anderson-gary-miller-and-stevie-banks-sign-new-contracts|publisher=Sky Sports|date=23 May 2014|accessdate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140530075617/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/16213/9322820/scottish-premiership-steven-anderson-gary-miller-and-stevie-banks-sign-new-contracts|archive-date=30 May 2014|url-status=dead}}
==Tenth season at St Johnstone==
It was announced on 5 April 2014 that Anderson would be awarded a testimonial match for his 10 years of service to St.Johnstone.{{cite news|title=Big year for St Johnstone's Anderson|url=http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/big-year-for-st-johnstone-s-anderson-1.302560|work=Evening Telegraph|date=5 April 2014|access-date=9 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101202122/http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/big-year-for-st-johnstone-s-anderson-1.302560|archive-date=1 November 2014 |url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title='Great year' for St Johnstone's Steven Anderson|url=http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/great-year-for-st-johnstone-s-steven-anderson-1.320353|work=Evening Telegraph|date=16 April 2014|access-date=9 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101201622/http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/great-year-for-st-johnstone-s-steven-anderson-1.320353|archive-date=1 November 2014 |url-status=dead}} When his testimonial match took place against Hearts on 4 August 2014, he started the whole game, as the Saints went on to lose 4–0.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Hearts 4: Stevie May could face Slovaks|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/st-johnstone-0-hearts-4-stevie-may-could-face-slovaks-1.506491|publisher=The Courier|date=4 August 2014|accessdate=17 August 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140804180306/http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/st-johnstone-0-hearts-4-stevie-may-could-face-slovaks-1.506491|archive-date=4 August 2014|url-status=dead}}
However, at the start of the 2014–15 season, Anderson suffered a hamstring injury that saw him miss both legs against Luzern in the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round against Luzern.{{cite news|title=FC Luzern v St Johnstone: Hamstring injury forces Steven Anderson to miss European tie|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/fc-luzern-v-st-johnstone-hamstring-injury-forces-steven-anderson-to-miss-european-tie-1.474521|publisher=The Courier|date=16 July 2014|accessdate=17 August 2014}}
{{cite news|title=Lucerne 1 St Johnstone 1|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13170454.lucerne-1-st-johnstone-1/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=17 July 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–1 Luzern (agg 2–2) (5–4 on pens)|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28331366|publisher=BBC Sport|date=24 July 2014|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727185922/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28331366|archive-date=27 July 2014|url-status=dead}} He appeared twice as an unused substitute in the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg against Spartak Trnava, as the Saints were eliminated from the Europa League.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–2 Spartak Trnava|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28508339|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 July 2014|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140801005111/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28508339|archive-date=1 August 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Spartak Trnava 1–1 St Johnstone (agg 3–2)|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28656175|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 August 2014|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140807202844/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28656175|archive-date=7 August 2014|url-status=dead}} Following the club's elimination from the tournament, Anderson returned to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 win against Ross County in the opening league game of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28647087|title=Ross County 1–2 St Johnstone|work=BBC Sport|date=9 August 2014|accessdate=25 June 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150401042324/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/2864708|archive-date=1 April 2015|url-status=dead}} Since returning from injury, Anderson continued to remain in the centre–back partnership with Frazer Wright.{{cite news|title=Archibald wants key men back|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/13294928.archibald-wants-key-men-back/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=26 October 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone v Ross County: Solid defence has helped us turn the corner, says Brian Easton|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/140339/st-johnstone-v-ross-county-solid-defence-has-helped-us-turn-the-corner-says-brian-easton/|website=The Courier|date=22 November 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone move ahead of Kilmarnock in search for top six|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13193628.st-johnstone-move-ahead-kilmarnock-search-top-six/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=15 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
On 4 October 2014 he scored his first goal of the season in a 2–1 defeat against St Mirren.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1–2 St Mirren|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29389511|work=BBC Sport|date=4 October 2014|accessdate=25 June 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150120170845/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/2938951|archive-date=20 January 2015|url-status=dead}} After suffering a minor injury, Anderson quickly recovered and helped helped St Johnstone kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 6 December 2014 and 20 December 2014.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss conscious of last loss to St Mirren|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/141111/st-johnstone-boss-conscious-of-last-loss-to-st-mirren/|website=The Courier|date=5 December 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Mirren 0–1 St Johnstone|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30256974|website=BBC Sport|date=6 December 2014|access-date=21 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325035918/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30256974|archive-date=25 March 2015|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 0 St Johnstone 1: Brian Graham penalty pushes Saints into top six|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/67987/kilmarnock-0-st-johnstone-1-brian-graham-penalty-pushes-saints-into-top-six/|website=The Courier|date=13 December 2014|access-date=21 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Inverness 0: Saints make it five wins on the bounce with hard-earned victory over Caley|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/124331/st-johnstone-1-inverness-0-saints-make-it-five-wins-on-the-bounce-with-hard-earned-victory-over-caley/|website=The Courier|date=21 December 2014|access-date=21 November 2024}} He had to wait until on 17 January 2015 to score his second goal of the season, in a 2–0 win over Partick Thistle{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–0 Partick Thistle|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30758185|work=BBC Sport|date=17 January 2015|accessdate=25 June 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150121060228/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30758185|archive-date=21 January 2015|url-status=dead}} After the match, Anderson said: "The onus should be on the strikers to score but the defenders have chipped. But our main job is to get a clean sheet and we've done that so I'm as happy with that as the goal."{{cite news|title=St Johnstone scorer Steven Anderson happy not to concede|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/126431/st-johnstone-scorer-steven-anderson-happy-not-to-concede/|website=The Courier|date=19 January 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Anderson, once again, helped the Saints kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 21 February 2015 and 4 March 2015.{{cite news|title=Dundee United 0 St Johnstone 2 : Saints produce dominant display in Tayside derby|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/231774/dundee-united-0-st-johnstone-2-saints-produce-dominant-display-in-tayside-derby/|website=The Courier|date=21 February 2015|access-date=21 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Kilmarnock 0: Saints and Killie play out disappointing draw|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13203745.st-johnstone-0-kilmarnock-0-saints-killie-play-disappointing-draw/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=28 February 2015|access-date=21 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 0 St Johnstone 1: Swanson stunner silences Celtic Park|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/242474/celtic-0-st-johnstone-1-swanson-stunner-silences-celtic-park/|website=The Courier|date=4 March 2015|access-date=21 November 2024}} Two weeks later on 21 March 2015, he scored his third goal of the season, in a 2–0 win over St Mirren.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–0 St Mirren|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31882911|work=BBC Sport|date=21 March 2015|accessdate=25 June 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324013634/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31882911|archive-date=24 March 2015|url-status=dead}} Anderson started in all matches until receiving a suspension for accumulating five yellow cards.{{cite web|url=http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/st-johnstone-pair-back-in-the-dens-park-plans-1.868183|title=St Johnstone pair back in the Dens Park plans|work=Evening Telegraph|date=25 April 2015|access-date=25 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427135235/http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/sport/st-johnstone/st-johnstone-pair-back-in-the-dens-park-plans-1.868183|archive-date=27 April 2015|url-status=dead}} After serving a one match suspension, he returned to the starting line–up, in a 1–1 draw against Inverness Caledonian Thistle on 2 May 2015.{{cite news|title=Third place in St Johnstone's sights|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/237082/third-place-in-st-johnstones-sights/|website=The Courier|date=1 May 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Inverness Caledonian Thistle 1|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13212206.st-johnstone-1-inverness-caledonian-thistle-1/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 May 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} On the last game of the season, Anderson led St Johnstone beat Aberdeen 1–0 to help the club qualify for the UEFA Europa League for the third year running.{{cite news|title=Scottish Premiership: St Johnstone edge past Aberdeen 1-0 at Pittodrie|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11789/9863048/scottish-premiership-aberdeen-v-st-johnstone|website=Sky Sports|date=24 May 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2014–15 season, he went on to make forty–one appearances and scoring three times in all competitions. For his performance, Anderson was awarded the We Are Perth 'Legend' at the Saints' award ceremony.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/3557|title=CHRIS MILLAR THE BIG WINNER AT PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124121030/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/3557|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}}
==Record Breaking Appearance==
After appearing as an unused substitute in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round against Alashkert, he made his first appearance of the 2015–16 season, in a 2–1 win in the return leg, only for St Johnstone to be eliminated from the tournament on away goals.{{cite news|title=FC Alashkert 1 St Johnstone 0 - Scoreline no disaster but 'possible cruciate' injury to Murray Davidson could well be|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13415426.fc-alashkert-1-st-johnstone-0---scoreline-no-disaster-possible-cruciate-injury-murray-davidson-well/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=2 July 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2–1 Alashkert FC (2–2)|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33415676|work=BBC Sport|date=9 July 2015|accessdate=12 July 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150711175118/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/3341567|archive-date=11 July 2015|url-status=dead}} During the match, however, he suffered a cheekbone injury after clashing with Siarhei Usenia and had to be substituted in the 72nd minute, resulting in him being taken to hospital.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone: Broken cheekbone fear for Steven Anderson|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33472770|work=BBC Sport|date=10 July 2015|accessdate=12 September 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712210710/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/33472770|archive-date=12 July 2015|url-status=dead}} Initially it was feared Anderson had suffered a broken cheekbone, but following hospital tests, it was revealed to just be badly swollen.{{cite news|title=Wright relief: Saints boss Tommy delighted as defender Steven Anderson gets all clear after horror injury|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wright-relief-saints-boss-tommy-6042951|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=10 July 2015|accessdate=12 July 2015}} As a result, he was out for two months.{{cite news|title=Saints defender to miss start of new season after surgery|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/250582/saints-defender-to-miss-start-of-new-season-after-surgery/|website=The Courier|date=20 July 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Ando told not to risk eye injury by blowing nose|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/240533/ando-told-not-to-risk-eyeinjury-by-blowing-nose/|website=The Courier|date=19 August 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright happy with squad despite missing signing target|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/230543/st-johnstone-boss-tommy-wright-happy-with-squad-despite-missing-signing-target/|website=The Courier|date=8 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
On 19 September 2015 Anderson returned to the first team from injury, coming on as a second–half substitute in a 2–1 loss against Kilmarnock.{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 2 St Johnstone 1|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13771445.kilmarnock-2-st-johnstone-1/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} After appearing in the next four matches as an unused substitute, due to Tommy Wright being wary of reintroducing him to the first team squad too quickly, he returned to the starting line–up against Inverness Caledonian Thistle and helped the club kept a clean sheet, in a 1–0 win on 24 October 2015.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone looking to end Highland hoodoo|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/245252/st-johnstone-looking-to-end-highland-hoodoo/|website=The Courier|date=23 October 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Inverness CT 0 St Johnstone 1|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/other_football/13894234.inverness-ct-0-st-johnstone-1/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=24 October 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, his return was short–lived when Anderson suffered ankle injury that saw him out for one match.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson has surgery after being cut to bone|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/dundee-fc/259943/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-has-surgery-after-being-cut-to-bone/|website=The Courier|date=30 November 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender likely to be out for the weekend|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/260801/st-johnstone-defender-likely-to-be-out-for-the-weekend/|website=The Courier|date=1 December 201|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Boost for St Johnstone as Steven Anderson returns from injury|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/235573/boost-for-st-johnstone-as-steven-anderson-returns-from-injury/|website=The Courier|date=12 December 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} He made his return to the starting line–up from injury, in a 3–0 loss against Celtic on 13 December 2015.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Celtic 3: Saints' unbeaten run halted by Hoops|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/237812/st-johnstone-0-celtic-3-saints-unbeaten-run-halted-by-hoops/|website=The Courier|date=13 December 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} Following his return, Anderson regained his first team place, forming a central defensive partnership with Joe Shaughnessy.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson can't wait to make comeback|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/209666/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-cant-wait-to-make-comeback/|website=The Courier|date=4 September 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright hails players' killer instinct|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/249036/st-johnstone-boss-tommy-wright-hails-players-killer-instinct/|website=The Courier|date=8 December 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss delighted with Joe Shaughnessy|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/263106/st-johnstone-boss-delighted-with-joe-shaughnessy/|website=The Courier|date=4 February 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
He then made his 350th appearance for the Saints, in a 1–0 loss against Kilmarnock on 9 January 2016 in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson isn't thinking about appearance record|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/258566/steven-anderson-isnt-thinking-about-appearance-record/|website=The Courier|date=2 December 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Kilmarnock 1: Slater makes the difference for resolute Killie|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14193759.st-johnstone-0-kilmarnock-1-slater-makes-difference-resolute-killie/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=9 January 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} A month later on 6 February 2016, Anderson scored his first goal of the season, in a 4–3 loss against Aberdeen.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3 Aberdeen 4: McInnes' men follow-up Celtic win with vital points in Perth|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14259083.st-johnstone-3-aberdeen-4-mcinnes-men-follow-up-celtic-win-vital-points-perth/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=6 February 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} Following the injury of Mackay, he captained St Johnstone for five matches between 27 February 2016 and 19 March 2016.{{cite news|title=Dons pay the penalty as St Johnstone sneak late draw|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14307428.dons-pay-penalty-st-johnstone-sneak-late-draw/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=28 February 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Partick Thistle 2: Deserved win for visitors as they close in on top-six|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14319420.st-johnstone-1-partick-thistle-2-deserved-win-visitors-close-top-six/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Football: St Johnstone grab late win over 10-man Inverness|url=https://www.thenational.scot/sport/14862852.football-st-johnstone-grab-late-win-over-10-man-inverness/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=9 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson can set a St Johnstone record that will never be beaten|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/259371/steven-anderson-can-set-a-st-johnstone-record-that-will-never-be-beaten/|website=The Courier|date=15 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} With Anderson's chances of reaching the club's most appearance becomes imminent, he equalled Alan Main's record against Ross County on 16 March 2016, only for him to give away the penalty, in a 1–1 draw.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson closing in on record|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/236911/steven-anderson-closing-in-on-record/|website=The Courier|date=10 February 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Ross County 1: Anderson's special night turns into a nightmare|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14348751.st-johnstone-1-ross-county-1-andersons-special-night-turns-nightmare/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=16 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Saints assistant boss Callum Davidson pays tribute to Steven Anderson|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/266776/saints-assistant-boss-callum-davidson-pays-tribute-to-steven-anderson/|website=The Courier|date=17 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} In a follow–up match against Hearts, Anderson officially became the player with most appearances for St Johnstone, breaking Alan Main's previous record of 361 to become the club's new all-time appearance holder, as St Johnstone won 3–0.{{cite news|title=Hearts 0 St Johnstone 3: Saints warm to their task of consolidating place in top six|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14371068.hearts-0-st-johnstone-3-saints-warm-task-consolidating-place-top-six/|website=The Heraldf Scotland|date=19 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2016/03/20/st-johnstone-midfielder-murray-davidson-lavishes-praise-record-breaker-steven-anderson/|title=St Johnstone midfielder Murray Davidson lavishes praise on record breaker Steven Anderson|website=Capital City Press|date=20 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180125132421/https://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2016/03/20/st-johnstone-midfielder-murray-davidson-lavishes-praise-record-breaker-steven-anderson/|archive-date=25 January 2018|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/4147|title=FRAZER WRIGHT CONGRATULATES 'ANDO' AHEAD OF 362ND MATCH|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124141901/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/4147|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}}
However, he suffered a hamstring injury that saw him out for two matches.{{cite news|title=Tommy Wright wants St Johnstone to seal top-six spot against Dundee United|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14395743.tommy-wright-wants-st-johnstone-seal-top-six-spot-dundee-united/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} But Anderson returned to the starting line–up against Aberdeen and set up the second goal of the game, in a 3–0 win on 22 April 2016.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3 Aberdeen 0: Saints thrash Dons again|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/159595/st-johnstone-3-aberdeen-0-saints-thrash-dons/|website=The Courier|date=22 April 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2015–16 season, he went on to make twenty–eight appearances and scoring once in all competitions. Following this, Anderson signed a new contract to commit himself to the club, keeping him until 2018.{{cite news|title=Saints' stalwarts Steven Anderson and Murray Davidson commit to the club|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/saints-stalwarts-steven-anderson-murray-7961794|website=Daily Record|date=14 May 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
==Becoming a Captain==
The start of the 2016–17 season saw Anderson helped St Johnstone progress through the group stage of the Scottish League Cup. {{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/elgin-city-1-3-saints|title=Elgin City 1-3 Saints (16.7.16)|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716093317/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/elgin-city-1-3-saints|archive-date=16 July 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-3-0-falkirk-23716|title=Saints 3-0 Falkirk (23.7.16)|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=8 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125100049/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-3-0-falkirk-23716|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-3-2-hearts-10816|title=Saints 3-2 Hearts (10.8.16)|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=17 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125100137/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-3-2-hearts-10816|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}} He also scored his first goal of the season, in a 4–0 win against Stirling Albion in the Scottish League Cup.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-4-0-stirling-albion-30716|title=Saints 4-0 Stirling Albion (30.7.16)|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=30 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124121112/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-4-0-stirling-albion-30716|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} However, Anderson missed one match due to a hip injury.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone injury boost – Steven Anderson should be back on Saturday|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/273042/st-johnstone-injury-boost-steven-anderson-back-saturday/|website=The Courier|date=23 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} But he made his return to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 loss against Inverness Caledonian Thistle on 27 August 2016.{{cite news|title=Inverness 2-1 St Johnstone: Stoppage-time winner hands Caley first Premiership win|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14709100.inverness-2-1-st-johnstone-stoppage-time-winner-hands-caley-first-premiership-win/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=27 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} Anderson scored his second goal of the season in a follow–up match, in a 2–0 win against Partick Thistle.{{cite news|title=Partick Thistle 0, St Johnstone 2: Steven MacLean stunner leaves Jags rock bottom|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/14735586.partick-thistle-0-st-johnstone-2-steven-maclean-stunner-leaves-jags-rock-bottom/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=10 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} He was appointed as the Saints' captain on 21 September, following the retirement of Dave Mackay.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37432739|title=Kitchen replaces Ozturk as Hearts captain as Anderson takes St Johnstone armband|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|date=21 September 2016|accessdate=21 September 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114222013/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/3743273|archive-date=14 November 2018|url-status=live}} Upon receiving it, he described the captaincy as an honour.{{cite news|title=New St Johnstone captain honoured to take the armband|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/292171/new-st-johnstone-captain-honoured-take-armband/|website=The Courier|date=29 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Anderson continued to be in a first team regular as captain and to remain in the centre–back partnership with Shaughnessy.{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 1 St Johnstone 0: Saints knocked out by last minute goal|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/289978/aberdeen-1-st-johnstone-0-saints-knocked-last-minute-goal/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=22 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 3 Inverness Caley Thistle 0: Tommy Wright hails defence after convincing win|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14945180.st-johnstone-3-inverness-caley-thistle-0-tommy-wright-hails-defence-convincing-win/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=4 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone: How have their summer signings performed so far?|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/344913/st-johnstone-summer-signings-performed-far/|website=The Courier|date=9 February 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} His performance was praised by manager Tommy Wright for "This return form in recent weeks after an early season dip", though he downplayed the praise.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson is back to his best, says St Johnstone boss|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/327159/steven-anderson-back-best-says-st-johnstone-boss/|website=The Courier|date=14 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson: I don't deserve special praise for St Johnstone improvement|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14972056.steven-anderson-dont-deserve-special-praise-st-johnstone-improvement/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=16 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} He scored his third goal of the season (also his 200th top-flight appearance the club), in a 2–1 win against Dundee on 23 October 2016.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 Dundee 1: Saints leapfrog Rangers after comfortable Tayside derby win|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14818664.st-johnstone-2-dundee-1-saints-leapfrog-rangers-comfortable-tayside-derby-win/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=23 October 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Danny Swanson should be considered for Scotland, says St Johnstone captain|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/303308/danny-swanson-considered-scotland-says-st-johnstone-captain-steven-anderson/|website=The Courier|date=25 October 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, Anderson suffered an illness that saw him out for one match.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Motherwell 1: Saints hindered by howler as they can only draw with Well|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/330956/st-johnstone-1-motherwell-1-saints-hindered-howler-can-draw-well/|website=The Courier|date=17 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} He made his return from his illness against Kilmarnock on 23 December 2016 and helped the club kept a clean sheet, in a 1–0 win.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss welcomes back three key players|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/333859/st-johnstone-boss-welcomes-back-three-key-players/|website=The Courier|date=22 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 0 St Johnstone 1: Saints win away again|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/335968/kilmarnock-0-st-johnstone-1-saints-win-away/|website=The Courier|date=23 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} In a follow–up match, during a1–1 draw with Rangers, Anderson was struck by Rob Kiernan, which was caught on live by the broadcasting and the officials didn't take action at the time.{{Cite news|last=Wilson|first=Richard|date=28 December 2016|title=St Johnstone 1–1 Rangers|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/38387787|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20161229150806/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/38387787|archive-date=29 December 2016|url-status=live}} After the match, he confirmed that Kiernan did punch him during the match.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson claims he was punched during draw with Rangers|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/338322/st-johnstones-steven-anderson-claims-punched-draw-rangers/|website=The Courier|date=29 December 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}} For this, Kiernan was offered a two-match suspension for violent conduct by the Scottish Football Association, however he chose to contest the charge and it was ultimately dismissed by disciplinary tribunal on 12 January 2017.{{Cite news|title=Rob Kiernan: Violent conduct charge against Rangers defender dismissed|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/38470818|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|date=12 January 2017|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20161230191853/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/38470818|archive-date=30 December 2016|url-status=live}} However. in early February, Anderson missed one match due to a tonsillitis.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 Celtic 5: Saints blown off course by controversial penalty decision|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/364215/st-johnstone-2-celtic-5-saints-blown-off-course-controversial-penalty-decision/|website=The Courier|date=5 February 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=David Wotherspoon acknowledges contribution made to St Johnstone cause by Zander Clark|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/367689/david-wotherspoon-acknowledges-contribution-made-st-johnstone-cause-zander-clark/|website=The Courier|date=11 February 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} He made his return to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 win against Ross County on 18 February 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/ross-county-1-2-saints18217|title=Ross County 1-2 Saints|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=17 August 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125100601/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/ross-county-1-2-saints18217|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}}
Two weeks later on 1 March 2017, he scored his fourth goal of the season, in a 3–2 loss against Rangers.{{cite news|title=Rangers 3 St. Johnstone 2: Injury-time Emerson Hyndman strike clinches victory in five goal Ibrox thriller|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15126975.rangers-3-st-johnstone-2-injury-time-emerson-hyndman-strike-clinches-victory-five-goal-ibrox-thriller/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=1 March 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, Anderson suffered a knee injury that kept him out for a month.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone striker Chris Kane could be out for two months|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/381827/st-johnstone-striker-chris-kane-two-months/|website=The Courier|date=7 March 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Fracas at Hamilton won't have impact on St Johnstone morale, insists boss Tommy Wright|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15199651.fracas-hamilton-wont-impact-st-johnstone-morale-insists-boss-tommy-wright/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} On 29 April 2017 he returned from injury and kept a clean sheet in a 2–0 win against Aberdeen.{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 0 St Johnstone 2: Sub Craig Thomson makes massive impact as Saints boost Euro chances|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/415966/aberdeen-0-st-johnstone-2-sub-craig-thomson-makes-massive-impact-saints-boost-euro-chances/|website=The Courier|date=29 April 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} In a follow–up match against Celtic, Anderson made 400th appearance for St Johnstone, in a 4–1 loss.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/celtic-4-1-saints6517|title=Celtic 4-1 Saints|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=6 May 2017|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507004651/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/celtic-4-1-saints6517|archive-date=7 May 2021|url-status=live}} Despite missing one more match, due to suspension , his contributions saw the Saints qualify for the UEFA Europa League next season.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone midfielder Murray Davidson gets ankle operation|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/424382/st-johnstone-midfielder-murray-davidson-gets-ankle-operation/|website=The Courier|date=12 May 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=When Celtic, Aberdeen, Rangers and St Johnstone play their first European qualifiers|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/when-celtic-aberdeen-rangers-and-10378603|website=Daily Record|date=17 May 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} By the end of the 2016–17 season, he had made 34 appearances and scored four goals.
==Thirteen season at St Johnstone==
However at the start of the 2017–18 season, Anderson missed both legs of the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round against FK Riteriai, as St Johnstone lost 3–1 on aggregate and was eliminated from the tournament.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone face Euro sweat over Anderson after 'poor' Ryan Jack tackle|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15367923.st-johnstone-face-euro-sweat-anderson-poor-ryan-jack-tackle/|website=the Herald Scotland|date=23 June 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-2-fk-trakai|title=Saints 1-2 FK Trakai|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=29 June 2017|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124124857/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-2-fk-trakai|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/fk-trakai-1-0-saints|title=FK Trakai 1-0 Saints|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=6 July 2017|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125103127/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/fk-trakai-1-0-saints|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the season, in a 2–1 win against Kilmarnock in the opening game of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/kilmarnock-1-2-saints|title=Kilmarnock 1–2 St Johnstone|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=5 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125104139/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/kilmarnock-1-2-saints|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against Partick Thistle in the last 16 of the Scottish League Cup, Anderson made his 400th appearance for the Saints, in a 3–0 loss and the club was eliminated from the tournament.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone skipper Steven Anderson insists securing Premiership safety is still No.1 priority|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/481558/st-johnstone-skipper-steven-anderson-insists-securing-premiership-safety-still-no-1-priority/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=2 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} When both clubs met again in the league on 20 August 2017, he got their revenge for St Johnstone by setting up the only goal of the game for Michael O'Halloran to win the match.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Partick Thistle 0: Anderson counts his lucky stars after Rangers allowed O'Halloran return|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15484657.st-johnstone-1-partick-thistle-0-anderson-counts-lucky-stars-rangers-allowed-ohalloran-return/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=20 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Clean sheet is the best bit for St Johnstone skipper Steven Anderson|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/494020/clean-sheet-best-bit-st-johnstone-skipper-steven-anderson/|website=The Courier|date=27 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} Since the start of the 2017–18 season, Anderson started in the first nine league matches as captain.{{cite news|title=Liam Craig frustrated with referee Alan Muir as St Johnstone fail to capitalise on 10-man Dundee|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15540731.liam-craig-frustrated-referee-alan-muir-st-johnstone-fail-capitalise-10-man-dundee/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 1 St Johnstone 1: Perth side make point but McGregor's late strike keeps Celtic's cloak of invincibility intact|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15497960.celtic-1-st-johnstone-1-perth-side-make-point-mcgregors-late-strike-keeps-celtics-cloak-invincibility-intact/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=27 August 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Saints' march has not gone unnoticed but who is our SPFL player of the month for August?|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15511554.saints-march-not-gone-unnoticed-spfl-player-month-august/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 September 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
However, in a match against Rangers on 13 October 2017, he received a second bookable offence, in a 3–0 loss.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Rangers 3: Rangers leave hosts all shook up|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15596337.st-johnstone-0-rangers-3-rangers-leave-hosts-shook/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=13 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} After serving a one match suspension, Anderson returned to the starting line–up against Ross County on 24 October 2017 and helped the club kept a clean sheet, in a 0–0 draw.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Ross County 0: Saints stop the rot but wait for elusive goal continues|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15616975.st-johnstone-0-ross-county-0-saints-stop-rot-wait-elusive-goal-continues/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=24 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} Following his return, he lost his captaincy role to Shaughnessy, but continued to remain in the centre–back partnership in the first team nevertheless.{{cite news|title=On-form Conor Sammon up for the fight as Partick Thistle look to end winless away run at St Johnstone|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/15899842.on-form-conor-sammon-fight-partick-thistle-look-end-winless-away-run-st-johnstone/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=27 January 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=Negativity frustrating St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright, whose team are still in top six|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/533287/negativity-frustrating-st-johnstone-boss-tommy-wright-whose-team-still-top-six/|website=The Courier|date=27 October 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson's shock at losing St Johnstone captaincy|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/538033/steven-andersons-shock-losing-st-johnstone-captaincy/|website=The Courier|date=4 November 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone owe their fans a home win|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/605636/st-johnstone-owe-fans-home-win/|website=The Courier|date=23 February 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} In a match against Celtic on 4 November 2017, Anderson was at fault when he scored an own goal, in a 4–0 loss.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Celtic 4; Brendan Rodgers' side make history with 63 undefeated domestic games|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15641306.st-johnstone-0-celtic-4-brendan-rodgers-side-make-history-63-undefeated-domestic-games/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=4 November 2017|access-date=30 November 2024}} His seventeen league starts soon came to an end in early–March when Anderson missed one match, due to a minor Achilles injury.{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 2 St Johnstone 0: 10-man Saints suffer at fortress Rugby Park|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/614156/kilmarnock-2-st-johnstone-0-10-man-saints-suffer-fortress-rugby-park/|website=The Courier|date=8 March 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone welcome back Steven Anderson|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/614737/st-johnstone-welcome-back-steven-anderson/|website=The Courier|date=9 March 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} He made his return to the starting line–up against Dundee on 10 March 2018 and helped St Johnstone win 4–0 win.{{cite news|title=Dundee 0 St Johnstone 4: Tempers flare as Saints claim victory and moral high ground at Dens|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/16079045.dundee-0-st-johnstone-4-tempers-flare-saints-claim-victory-moral-high-ground-dens/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=11 March 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone's old boys lead the way in derby rout|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/615837/st-johnstones-old-boys-lead-way-derby-rout/|website=The Courier|date=12 March 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
A month later on 28 April 2018, Anderson made his 250th top-flight appearance for St Johnstone, starting the whole game, in a 1–1 draw against Partick Thistle.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1 Partick Thistle 1: Late Sammon penalty boosts Jags ahead of Ross County crunch match|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/16191728.st-johnstone-1-partick-thistle-1-late-sammon-penalty-boosts-jags-ahead-ross-county-crunch-match/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=28 April 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson hopeful of many more appearances for St Johnstone|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/643704/steven-anderson-hopeful-of-many-more-appearances-for-st-johnstone/ |website=The Courier|date=28 April 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} After the match, he said: "It's another milestone for me and hopefully there are many more to come." Anderson then scored his first goal (and last goal for the Saints), in a 5–1 win against Motherwell on 5 May 2018.{{cite news|title=Motherwell 1 St Johnstone 5: MacLean hits farewell treble|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/16207586.motherwell-1-st-johnstone-5-maclean-hits-farewell-treble/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=5 May 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2017–18 season, he made thirty–six appearances and scoring once in all competitions. Following this, Anderson signed a two–year contract extension with the club, keeping him until 2020.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/steven-anderson-pens-new-two-year-deal|title=Steven Anderson pens new two-year-deal|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=24 May 2018|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124135010/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/steven-anderson-pens-new-two-year-deal|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} After signing a contract with St Johnstone, he said: "I'm delighted to get my future sorted out. It was a no-brainer after listening to the gaffer and his plans for the team going forward. I am getting older so it is just a matter of time before they take my place but there is life in the old dog yet. I am as fit as I have ever been and luckily I have managed to steer clear of serious knee injuries down the years. My worse injuries have been to my eye socket and my thumb."{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender Steven Anderson confident he can hold back the years|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/660123/st-johnstone-defender-steven-anderson-confident-he-can-hold-back-the-years/|website=The Courier|date=26 May 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
==Decline and Departure==
The start of the 2018–19 season saw Anderson made three starts for St Johnstone.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-0-falkirk|title=Saints 1-0 Falkirk|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=24 July 2018|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125133544/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-0-falkirk|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Kilmarnock 2 St Johnstone 0: Ndjoli scores on debut as strong second-half show earns Steve Clarke's men the spoils in Premiers|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/16398895.kilmarnock-2-st-johnstone-0-ndjoli-scores-debut-strong-second-half-show-earns-steve-clarkes-men-spoils-premiers/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=4 August 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-1-hibss|title=Saints 1-1 Hibernian|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=12 August 2018|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125134316/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-1-1-hibss|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}} However, he suffered ankle injury that saw him miss one match, although the injury was not serious.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson injury not serious, confirms St Johnstone boss|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/705112/steven-anderson-injury-not-serious-confirms-st-johnstone-boss/|website=The Courier|date=14 August 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} Upon returning to the first team, Anderson struggled to get more playing time, due to Shaughnessy and Jason Kerr.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone skipper expects even better from Jason Kerr|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/679762/st-johnstone-skipper-expects-even-better-from-jason-kerr/|website=The Courier|date=30 June 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Record-breaking St Johnstone still flying under the radar, claims boss Tommy Wright|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/763571/record-breaking-st-johnstone-still-flying-under-the-radar-claims-boss-tommy-wright/|website=The Courier|date=13 November 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Motherwell goal from Jason Kerr started St Johnstone run off|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/785781/motherwell-goal-from-jason-kerr-started-st-johnstone-run-off/|website=The Courier|date=15 December 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} He only made more one appearance upon returning from injury, coming on as a second-half substitute, in a 6–0 loss against Celtic on 7 October 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-0-6-celtic|title=Saints 0-6 Celtic|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=7 October 2018|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125141142/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/saints-0-6-celtic|archive-date=25 November 2024|url-status=live}} However, his return was short–lived when Anderson suffered a knee injury that kept him out for a month.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone want to turn average start into a good one|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/747257/st-johnstone-want-to-turn-average-start-into-a-good-one/|website=The Courier|date=19 October 2018|access-date=30 November 2024}} During the 2018–19 season, Anderson only made four appearances for the Saints.
Anderson made his only appearance of the 2019–20 season, losing 2–1 against Ross County in the group stage of the Scottish League Cup.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 1-2 Ross County – Saints punished for missing chances|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/939883/st-johnstone-1-2-ross-county-saints-punished-for-missing-chances/|website=The Courier|date=21 July 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} He then returned from a loan spell at Raith Rovers to recover before the season was curtailed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/preview-saints-v-rangers-feb-2020|title=PREVIEW: Saints v Rangers|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=21 February 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124125754/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/preview-saints-v-rangers-feb-2020|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=CONTRACTS: The St Johnstone players who face an uncertain future because of coronavirus shutdown|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/1213849/st-johnstone-contracts-expired-coronavirus/|website=The Courier|date=25 March 2020|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/52646282|title=Celtic champions & Hearts relegated after SPFL ends season|website=BBC Sport|date=18 May 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200518114202/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/52646282|archive-date=18 May 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2019–20 season, Anderson left the club after 16 years, which had made 439 appearances for the club in all competitions.{{cite news|title=End of an era as St Johnstone legend Steven Anderson leaves McDiarmid Park|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/1322455/st-johnstone-steven-anderson-contract/|website=The Courier|date=18 May 2020|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.weareperth.co.uk/2020/05/21/steven-anderson-tributes-to-a-legend/|title=Steven Anderson – tributes to a legend|website=weareperth.co.uk|publisher=St Johnstone FC|date=21 May 2020|access-date=19 February 2021}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/club-legend-ando-depart-mcdiarmid-park|title=Club Legend Ando to depart McDiarmid Park|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=25 May 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124141911/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/club-legend-ando-depart-mcdiarmid-park|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}}
==Partick Thistle (loan)==
On 29 January 2019, Anderson was loaned to Partick Thistle for the rest of the 2018–19 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47047654|title=St Johnstone's Steven Anderson joins Partick Thistle, with Niall Keown switching to Perth|work=BBC Sport |date=29 January 2019|accessdate=29 January 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190201142849/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47047654|archive-date=1 February 2019|url-status=live}}
He scored on his debut for the Jags, in a 2–1 win against Inverness Caledonian Thistle on 2 February 2019.{{cite web|url=https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-match-report/inverness-ct-v-partick-thistle-2nd-february-2019/|title=Inverness CT v Partick Thistle – 2nd February 2019|website=Partick Thistle F.C.|date=2 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240720094649/https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-match-report/inverness-ct-v-partick-thistle-2nd-february-2019/|archive-date=20 July 2024|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against East Fife in the fifth round of the Scottish Cup, Anderson scored again, in a 1–0 win to advance to the next round.{{cite web|url=https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-match-reaction/east-fife-v-partick-thistle-9th-february-2019/|title=East Fife v Partick Thistle – 9th February 2019|website=Partick Thistle F.C.|date=9 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222215053/https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-match-reaction/east-fife-v-partick-thistle-9th-february-2019/|archive-date=22 February 2024|url-status=live}} After the match, his performance was praised by manager Gary Caldwell. Since joining Partick Thistle, he became a first team regular for the rest of the season.{{cite news|title='Old-school' Steven Anderson plays down Partick Thistle cup run to focus on league|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/17422712.old-school-steven-anderson-plays-partick-thistle-cup-run-focus-league/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=10 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite news|title=Blair Spittal reckons Scott McDonald could be key in Partick Thistle survival fight|url=https://www.thenational.scot/sport/17439507.blair-spittal-reckons-scott-mcdonald-key-partick-thistle-survival-fight/|website=The National Scotland|date=17 February 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} Anderson then scored his third goal for the club, in a 3–0 win against Greenock Morton on 30 March 2019.{{cite news|title=Double for Doolan as Thistle climb out of relegation zone|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/17539733.double-doolan-thistle-climb-relegation-zone/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=30 March 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} During his loan spell with the Jags, he made 16 appearances, scoring 3 goals in all competitions.{{Cite web|title=Steven Anderson|url=https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-team/steven-anderson/|access-date=21 July 2021|website=Partick Thistle FC|language=en|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190724213814/https://ptfc.co.uk/ptfc-team/steven-anderson/|archive-date=24 July 2019|url-status=live}} Following this, Anderson returned to his parent club.{{cite news|title=Zander Clark wants to stay at St Johnstone, says Tommy Wright|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/921082/zander-clark-wants-to-stay-at-st-johnstone-says-tommy-wright/|website=The Courier|date=25 July 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}}
==Raith Rovers (loan)==
Anderson joined Raith Rovers on a season long loan on 6 September 2019.{{Cite web|title=Steven Anderson {{!}} Raith Rovers FC|url=https://www.raithrovers.net/41309/steven-anderson.htm|publisher=Raith Rovers F.C.|date=6 September 2019|access-date=21 July 2021|website=www.raithrovers.net|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190914064156/http://www.raithrovers.net/41309/steven-anderson.htm|archive-date=14 September 2019|url-status=live}} Upon being loaned out, manager Tommy Wright said: "It's best for Steven to go out and play. We have been talking about that for a long period of time. Ideally, would a manager want to keep someone of his experience about the place – of course. It's the same this time round. I can't guarantee him regular football so it's best for him in the long run."{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright pays tribute to long-serving Scottish Cup hero Steven Anderson|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/974919/st-johnstone-boss-tommy-wright-pays-tribute-to-long-serving-scottish-cup-hero-steven-anderson/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=10 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}}
The next day, he made his debut for the club, starting the whole game, in a 2–0 win against Falkirk in the Scottish Challenge Cup.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers' spot-on performance sees off Falkirk in Challenge Cup|url=https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/raith-rovers-spot-on-performance-sees-off-falkirk-in-challenge-cup-943212|website=Fife Today|date=8 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} Anderson soon became a first team regular for Raith Rovers, forming a centre–back partnership with Kyle Benedictus and Iain Davidson.{{cite news|title=Double satisfaction for Raith Rovers after victory in Airdrie|url=https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/double-satisfaction-for-raith-rovers-after-victory-in-airdrie-938839|website=Fife Today|date=21 September 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers have been performing better than expected – View from the Terrace|url=https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/raith-rovers-have-been-performing-better-than-expected-view-from-the-terrace-935393|website=Fife Today|date=4 October 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} This last until he received a second bookable offence, in a 2–2 draw against Clyde on 19 October 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/ten-man-raith-rovers-stay-top-despite-losing-two-goal-lead-at-clyde-930500|title=Ten-man Raith Rovers stay top despite losing two-goal lead at Clyde|website=Fife Today|date=19 October 2019|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624093849/https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/ten-man-raith-rovers-stay-top-despite-losing-two-goal-lead-at-clyde-930500|archive-date=24 June 2024|url-status=live}} On 30 November 2019, however, Anderson suffered an injury and was substituted at half time during a 1–0 win against Montrose.{{cite web|url=https://www.raithrovers.net/matches/montrose-0-1-raith-rovers/|title=Montrose 0–1 Raith Rovers|website=Raith Rovers F.C.|date=30 November 2019|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713031038/https://www.raithrovers.net/matches/montrose-0-1-raith-rovers/|archive-date=13 July 2024|url-status=live}} As a result, he was out for two months.{{cite news|title=Red card drama as Raith Rovers return to top of League One|url=https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/sport/football/red-card-drama-as-raith-rovers-return-to-top-of-league-one-1335437|website=Fife Today|date=7 December 2019|access-date=30 November 2024}} By February, Anderson returned to his parent club, which he made thirteen appearances in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Celtic were the cup draw nobody wanted, admits St Johnstone boss (but they can cause a shock)|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/1134541/celtic-were-the-cup-draw-nobody-wanted-admits-st-johnstone-boss-but-they-can-cause-a-shock/|website=The Courier|date=11 February 2020|access-date=30 November 2024}}
=Forfar Athletic=
On 14 July 2020, Anderson signed for Scottish League One club Forfar Athletic on a two-year deal.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4201-steven-anderson-signs-two-year-contract|title=Steven Anderson signs two year contract|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=14 July 2022|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715191231/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4201-steven-anderson-signs-two-year-contract|archive-date=15 July 2020|url-status=live}}
However, his start to his career at the club suffered a setback when he missed the first two months of the season, due to injuries.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4275-club-update-8|title=Club Update|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=30 September 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241117195811/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4275-club-update-8|archive-date=17 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4292-forfar-athletic-v-hibernian-match-preview|title=Forfar Athletic v Hibernian – match preview|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=12 October 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120140640/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4292-forfar-athletic-v-hibernian-match-preview|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}} Anderson made his debut for Forfar Athletic, only for him to be substituted in the 9th minute due to suffering an achilles problem, in a 2–0 loss against Partick Thistle on 12 December 2020, in what turns out to be his only appearance of the season.{{cite web|url=https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4361-forfar-athletic-0-vs-partick-thistle-2-1227|title=Forfar Athletic 0 vs Partick Thistle 2|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=12 December 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20210121021257/https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4361-forfar-athletic-0-vs-partick-thistle-2-1227|archive-date=21 January 2021|url-status=live}} After the match, he was eventually out for the rest of the 2020–21 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4364-steven-anderson-update|title=Steven Anderson – update|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=17 December 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241117195816/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4364-steven-anderson-update|archive-date=17 November 2024|url-status=live}} Anderson later credited the club's physio for saving his career, as he spent nine months rehabilitating his injury and fitness.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson: Super physio saved my Forfar career and got me playing four months early|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/2506928/steven-anderson-super-physio-saved-my-forfar-career-and-got-me-playing-four-months-early/|website=The Courier|date=3 September 2021|access-date=30 November 2024}}
The start of the 2021–22 season saw Anderson continue recover from his achilles problem.{{cite web|url=https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4581-annan-athletic-0-forfar-athletic-2-1274|title=Annan Athletic 0 Forfar Athletic 2|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=31 July 2021|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210924180808/https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4581-annan-athletic-0-forfar-athletic-2-1274|archive-date=24 September 2021|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the season, starting a match and played 64 minutes, in a 1–0 win against Formartine United in the first round of the Scottish Challenge Cup.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4593-forfar-athletic-1-fortmartine-united-0-1317|title=Forfar Athletic 1 Formartine United 0|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=10 August 2021|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630104442/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4593-forfar-athletic-1-fortmartine-united-0-1317|archive-date=30 June 2022|url-status=live}} Following his return from injury, Anderson became a first team regular, forming a centre–back partnership with Andy Munro.{{cite web|url=https://forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4711-michael-travis-joins-berwick-rangers-on-loan|title=Michael Travis joins Berwick Rangers on loan|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=24 November 2021|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208054131/https://forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4711-michael-travis-joins-berwick-rangers-on-loan|archive-date=8 December 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Forfar Athletic half-term report card: Who's their star man, standout moment and overall grade?|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/2850936/forfar-athletic-half-term-report-card-whos-their-star-man-standout-moment-and-overall-grade/|website=The Courier|date=31 December 2021|access-date=30 November 2024}} He scored his first goal for the club, which turned out to be a winning goal, in a 3–2 win against Albion Rovers on 4 December 2021.{{cite web|url=https://ns0.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4723-albion-rovers-2-forfar-athletic-3-1288|title=Albion Rovers 2 Forfar Athletic 3|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=4 December 2021|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120140526/https://ns0.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4723-albion-rovers-2-forfar-athletic-3-1288|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}} Two weeks later on 17 December 2021, Anderson scored his second goal of the season, in a 4–0 win against Edinburgh City.{{cite web|url=https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4740-edinburgh-city-0-forfar-athletic-4-1290|title=Edinburgh City 0 Forfar Athletic 4|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=17 December 2021|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809190023/https://forfarathletic.co.uk/fixtures-and-reports/new-match-reports-and-fixtures/item/4740-edinburgh-city-0-forfar-athletic-4-1290|archive-date=9 August 2022|url-status=live}} However, during a 2–2 draw against Annan Athletic on 15 January 2022, he suffered a shoulder injury and was substituted in the 56th minute.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4777-weekend-break-for-the-loons|title=Weekend Break for the 'Loons'|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=18 January 2022|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630095122/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4777-weekend-break-for-the-loons|archive-date=30 June 2022|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Forfar dealt blow as dislocated shoulder sees veteran Steven Anderson facing spell out|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/2920926/forfar-athletic-steven-anderson-dislocated-shoulder/|website=The Courier|date=18 January 2022|access-date=30 November 2024}} After the match, Anderson never played for Forfar Athletic for the rest of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4785-forfar-athletic-v-edinburgh-city-match-details-preview-2|title=Forfar Athletic v Edinburgh City – Match Details/Preview|website=Forfar Athletic F.C.|date=27 January 2022|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128192648/https://www.forfarathletic.co.uk/item/4785-forfar-athletic-v-edinburgh-city-match-details-preview-2|archive-date=28 January 2022|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Forfar boss Gary Irvine provides injury updates on defensive pair as Steven Anderson resumes training|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/3203693/forfar-gary-irvine-injury-updates/|website=The Courier|date=15 April 2022|access-date=30 November 2024}} At the end of the 2021–22 season, he went on to make twenty–three appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. Following the club, the club announced Anderson's departure.{{cite news|title=Forfar duo sign new contracts as Gary Irvine looks to build squad for League One return|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/3290054/forfar-duo-sign-new-contracts-as-gary-irvine-looks-to-build-squad-for-league-one-return/|website=The Courier|date=12 May 2022|access-date=30 November 2024}}
=Berwick Rangers=
On 7 May 2022, Anderson signed a one-year contract with Lowland League side Berwick Rangers, with the further possibility of a one-year contract extension.{{Cite web|url=https://berwickrangers.com/anderson-joins-the-gers/|title=Anderson joins the Gers |publisher=Berwick Rangers FC |date=7 May 2022 |accessdate=8 May 2022|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220507183500/https://berwickrangers.com/anderson-joins-the-gers/|archive-date=7 May 2022|url-status=live}}
He made his debut for the club, starting the whole game, in a 6–0 loss against Heart of Midlothian B team in the opening game of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.heartsfc.co.uk/blogs/news/match-report-berwick-hammered-in-b-team-opener|title=Match Report: Berwick hammered in B Team opener|website=Heart of Midlothian F.C.|date=23 July 2022|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129175459/https://www.heartsfc.co.uk/blogs/news/match-report-berwick-hammered-in-b-team-opener|archive-date=29 November 2023|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against Celtic B team, Anderson captained Berwick Rangers for the first time, in a 1–0 win, in what turns out to be his last appearance for the club.{{cite news|title='I couldn't be happier' - Berwick Rangers manager Stuart Malcolm lauds his troops after 1-0 win over Celtic B|url=https://www.thesouthernreporter.co.uk/sport/football/i-couldnt-be-happier-berwick-rangers-manager-stuart-malcolm-lauds-his-troops-after-1-0-win-over-celtic-b-3783380|website=The Southern Reporter|date=27 July 2022|access-date=30 November 2024}} However, his season ended when he ruptured his achilles tendon.{{cite web|url=https://berwickrangers.com/mackay-out-for-a-minimum-of-6-months/|title=Mackay out for a minimum of 6 months.|website=Berwick Rangers F.C.|date=24 April 2024|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240425073828/https://berwickrangers.com/mackay-out-for-a-minimum-of-6-months/|archive-date=25 April 2024|url-status=live}}
=Crossgates Primrose=
On 31 May 2023, Anderson joined Crossgates Primrose after leaving Berwick Rangers.{{cite news|title=Ex-St Johnstone Scottish Cup winner Steven Anderson joins Crossgates|url=http://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/23559795.ex-st-johnstone-scottish-cup-winner-steven-anderson-joins-crossgates/|website=Dumferline Press|date=31 May 2023|access-date=30 November 2024}} By the time he left the club, Anderson made fourteen appearances and scoring once in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Crossgates Primrose's Brian Ritchie retires as four others exit|url=https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/sport/24037528.crossgates-primroses-brian-ritchie-retires-four-others-exit/|website=Dunfermline Press|date=10 January 2024|access-date=30 November 2024}}
=Broxburn Athletic=
On 6 January 2024, Anderson signed with East of Scotland Football League team Broxburn Athletic until the end of the 2023–24 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/player-movement-in-and-out/|title=PLAYER MOVEMENT IN AND OUT|website=Broxburn Athletic FC|date=7 January 2024|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225015316/https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/player-movement-in-and-out/|archive-date=25 February 2024|url-status=live}}
On the same day, he played his first match for Broxburn away to Tynecastle in a 3–2 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/event/tynecastle-v-broxburn-athletic-4/|title=Tynecastle 2 – 3 Broxburn Athletic|publisher=Broxburn Athletic FC|date=6 January 2024|accessdate=27 May 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527182139/https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/event/tynecastle-v-broxburn-athletic-4/|archive-date=27 May 2024|url-status=live}} Anderson played in a majority of Broxburn's matches until the end of the season, eventually winning the East of Scotland League Premier Division and securing promotion to the Lowland League.{{cite web |title=Champions 2023/24|url=https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/champions-2023-24/|publisher=Broxburn Athletic FC|date=19 May 2024|accessdate=27 May 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527182857/https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/champions-2023-24/|archive-date=27 May 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Broxburn Athletic win Lowland League promotion: Boss hails players and fans after Dalbeattie demolition job|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/broxburn-athletic-win-lowland-league-32911686|website=Daily Record|date=29 May 2024|access-date=30 November 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/player/steven-anderson/|title=Steven Anderson|website=Broxburn Athletic FC|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240714231255/https://www.broxburnathletic.co.uk/player/steven-anderson/|archive-date=14 July 2024|url-status=live}} On 4 August 2024, Broxburn announced his departure from the club.{{cite tweet|user=BroxburnAthFC|author=Broxburn Athletic|number=1820175370664002005|title=Ando departs. A legendary player of Scottish football, Steven Anderson brought vast experience and talent to our league winning back line for the second half of last season. All the best Ando!|date=4 August 2024}}
Style of play
Throughout his time at St. Johnstone, Anderson mostly plays in right–back, left–back and even midfield positions. Thised last until he became the club's first choice centre–back position. This earned him nicknamed as "Victor Meldrew of Scottish football", a name that Anderson agreed with because of his grumpy personality.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone star Steven Anderson happy to be labelled the Victor Meldrew of Scottish football|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-star-steven-anderson-2215104|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=24 August 2013|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
{{cite news|title=Dundee United v St Johnstone: Misery just part of being a winner|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/dundee-united/100084/dundee-united-v-st-johnstone-misery-just-part-of-being-a-winner/|website=The Courier|date=24 April 2015|access-date=30 November 2024}} Manager Caldwell said about him: "I think I'd describe him as old school in the way that he defends. Anderson just wants to head things and put in tackles but he's also smart enough to know when the right time is to do that which you saw a couple of times today. Anderson is someone who young centre-halves should look up to and try to learn from. He's been very successful in his career and uses his experience to command the defence which helps those around him."{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/3593|title='WHERE IT ALL BEGAN' BY ERIN MCRITCHIE|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241119102318/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/3593|archive-date=19 November 2024|url-status=live}} Anderson agreed that his playing style was old school, saying: "I heads the ball, defend right, first and foremost, and make sure people roundabout can play. Saturday was my kind of game."
However, Anderson was accused by Rangers player Vladimir Weiss of being overly physical following St Johnstone's 2–1 defeat against Rangers on 28 August 2010.{{cite web|title=Weiss warns Cloggers he has no fears|url=http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/196442/Weiss-warns-Cloggers-he-has-no-fears|publisher=Daily Express|last=MacFarlane|first=Iain|date=30 August 2010|accessdate=12 September 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151005161431/https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/196442/Weiss-warns-Cloggers-he-has-no-fears|archive-date=5 October 2015|url-status=live}} Responding to Weiss' criticism, he defended his actions saying that he was simply defending.{{cite news|title=My tackles on Vladimir Weiss were not rough – it was just defending, says St Johnstone's Steven Anderson|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/my-tackles-on-vladimir-weiss-were-not-1069662|work=Daily Record|location=Glasgow|date=11 September 2010|accessdate=7 June 2014}}
Despite this, Anderson was viewed highly regards as a St Johnstone legend by managers, players and supporters.{{cite news|title=Testimonial year for St Johnstone's 'unsung hero' Steven Anderson|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/testimonial-year-for-st-johnstone-s-unsung-hero-steven-anderson-1.302121|publisher=The Courier|date=4 April 2014|accessdate=9 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714191606/http://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/testimonial-year-for-st-johnstone-s-unsung-hero-steven-anderson-1.302121|archive-date=14 July 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone sign up first poet-in-residence|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/perth-kinross/120820/st-johnstone-sign-up-first-poet-in-residence/|website=The Courier|date=22 March 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=Partick Thistle 0 St Johnstone 2: Paul Paton has the last laugh|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/284850/partick-thistle-0-st-johnstone-2-paul-paton-last-laugh/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=12 September 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/my-saints-xi-chris-millar|title=MY SAINTS XI: With Chris Millar|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=15 April 2020|access-date=30 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120073534/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/my-saints-xi-chris-millar|archive-date=20 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Even big St Johnstone wins didn't keep Steven Anderson happy if there was no clean-sheet, says Tommy Wright|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/1323321/even-big-st-johnstone-wins-didnt-keep-steven-anderson-happy-if-there-was-no-clean-sheet-says-tommy-wright/|website=The Courier|date=20 May 2020|access-date=30 November 2024}} Teammate Danny Swanson felt that Anderson should be included in the Scotland squad, pointing out that Gordon Greer was called up at 33 years old.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson should be considered for Scotland, says team-mate Danny Swanson|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/288665/steven-anderson-considered-scotland-says-team-mate-danny-swanson/|website=The Courier|date=22 November 2016|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Personal Life
Growing up, Anderson was a boyhood Hibernian supporter, due to being from Dalkeith.{{cite news|title=Scottish Cup Final: Steven Anderson says winner's medal would be perfect birthday gift for his mum|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/148832/scottish-cup-final-steven-anderson-says-winners-medal-would-be-perfect-birthday-gift-for-his-mum/|website=The Courier|date=13 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}} He is married to his wife, Sarah, and together, they have one child.{{cite news|title=Med cruise won't stop Anderson watching cup final|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/264356/med-cruise-wont-stop-anderson-watching-cup-final/|website=The Courier|date=28 May 2014|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Outside of football, Anderson works for the Fife Council as an environmental health technical officer.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson would love Murray Davidson to have his special Hampden moment|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/steven-anderson-would-love-murray-24137591|website=Daily Record|date=18 May 2021|access-date=30 November 2024}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2014 Scottish Cup winners: Where are they now?|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/st-johnstone/4975627/st-johnstone-2014-scottish-cup-winners-where-are-they-now/|website=The Courier|date=17 May 2024|access-date=30 November 2024}}
Career statistics
{{updated|match played 15 January 2022}}{{soccerway|steven-anderson/31459|accessdate=21 November 2017}}
{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
{{Reflist|group=lower-roman}}
Honours
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{Soccerbase}}
- [http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/team/steven-anderson St Johnstone FC profile]
{{DEFAULTSORT:Anderson, Steven}}
Category:Dundee United F.C. players
Category:Men's association football defenders
Category:Footballers from Edinburgh
Category:Scottish Football League players
Category:Scottish men's footballers
Category:St Johnstone F.C. players
Category:Raith Rovers F.C. players
Category:Scottish Premier League players
Category:Scottish Professional Football League players
Category:Partick Thistle F.C. players
Category:Forfar Athletic F.C. players