Vincent: I will learn from Latapy
JAMES VINCENT admits the presence of a Hibernian legend in Inverness played a big part in him snubbing the Easter Road club.
The Caley Thistle attacker signed a new two-year contract extension through to summer 2016 just before yesterday’s scoreless draw against Hearts.
It was a big coup for the Highlanders, who had feared losing the talented 24-year-old to former boss Terry Butcher in the capital.
Vincent admitted that his representatives had spoken to Hibs, but he opted to stay because of his happiness at being part of John Hughes’ regime – and not least because of the ‘Little Magician’ Russell Latapy.
Latapy arrived as Hughes’ assistant last month and has been working closely with Vincent as he adapts to a new role behind striker Billy McKay.
Vincent, who arrived from Kidderminster last summer, admitted: “I’ve loved my time here so far. They play the right style of football which suits my game.
“The gaffer has come in and taken over with that philosophy — he likes to play football.
“Russell Latapy is a guy I know can help me take my career forwards. I know we have most of the squad tied up, so we’ll have a good squad next year.
“Having that is going to bring the best out of me so it was a no-brainer, really.
“Russ is not a young man any more, but he’s still got it. We have little possession drills in training and you see what a talent he is.
“You can only learn from that. You learn from every coach, but he played in my position so it is priceless for me working with a guy like that.
“He has given me a different mindset. he says it’s okay to lose the ball — you can afford to do that in your role.”