Saints sign German striker Schmidt on two-year deal

German striker Danny Schmidt is relishing the "big challenge" of playing outside his homeland for the first time after joining St Johnstone. Schmidt, who was released by Fortuna Dusseldorf this summer, has signed a two-year deal in Perth. The 23-year-old, 6ft 2in forward came through the ranks at Mainz before joining Fortuna two years ago, going on score five goals in 39 appearances for the club who were relegated from the second tier last season. He also had a loan spell at RW Essen. "Everyone has welcomed me so nicely," said Schmidt. "It is a family club and I already feel really good here. "This is a big challenge for me and it is my first time out of Germany. Of course, it is the top league in Scotland and everything is new to me. But I am so excited for what can happen. "We know the league is going to be tough because there is a lot of quality. We have a good team, good coaches and we can compete. "I am a strong player and like to play with the ball. I feel I have good technique and I like to shoot. I'll be offensive but will also work hard for this team."