Paton leaves County as Harmon signs up

Midfielder Harry Paton has opted to leave Ross County – as a third new signing further bolstered the Staggies’ squad.

Canadian international Paton, 24, had been offered a new contract with the Highlanders, but he has told manager Malky Mackay he’s ready for a fresh challenge and is looking elsewhere.

County confirmed the signing of former West Brom and Oxford City left-back George Harmon on a two-year deal.

That follows on from Tuesday’s announcement that Canadian midfielder Victor Loturi, 21, and ex-Swansea City midfielder Yan Dhanda, 23, had joined on three and two-year contracts respectively.

It has been hoped that, carrying on from the latest extensions for midfielder David Cancola and defender Alex Iacovitti, Paton would also stay, but Mackay confirmed the player has already moved on.

He said of Paton, who joined from Hearts in 2018: “Harry’s out of contract and no longer with the club.

“He wanted to look elsewhere. We had the conversation in December, and I offered him a contract.

“He felt it was better for himself to get to the end of the season and look for a fresh challenge, which is fine.

“As we saw, it didn’t stop me playing him. He was out injured for a wee period of time, but even in our very last game of the campaign he was involved.

“He was someone who gave his all for the club whenever he played.

“There was never a point where I felt he was looking after himself and that I should take him out of the team.

“Right up to the last day, he showed a great attitude at the football club, having been a good addition to the squad when he signed from Hearts.

“That’s been proven over a number of years and I just wish him all the best wherever his career takes him next.”

Harry Paton.