McGlynn delighted by ex-Don Ross’s work rate and commitment

John McGlynn insists Ethan Ross’s scintillating start to life at Raith Rovers has gone “above and beyond” what he expected from the ex-Aberdeen kid.

Ross, 20, joined Rovers in October after a fivefigure compensation fee was agreed with the Dons.

The signing was considered a coup at the time, with the Scotland U19 having already illustrated his undoubted potential during a loan stint at Stark’s Park last term.

However, Ross has superseded even the most optimistic predictions regarding his immediate impact, notching three goals in his first six outings.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised,” McGlynn told Courier Sport. “Of course, you always hope it’ll work out like this and a new player will hit the ground running.

“But, especially in terms of goals, Ethan’s return has been above and beyond expectations.

“When you put pace and ability together, then you’ve got a player! Throw in the fact he’s playing with bags of confidence, and there’s nothing better as an attacker.”

Thriving in the No 10 role, Ross’s exploits are all the more impressive given he did not undertake a proper pre-season programme, instead training with several English sides including Southampton.

“Part of his decisionmaking was the fact he has been here before and would be comfortable in the environment,” McGlynn said. “In terms of settling in, that was a simple process.

“That just leaves the match-day stuff. He didn’t get a proper pre-season. He was down in England at this club and that club.

“But Ethan is a naturally fit boy. He covers a lot of ground and that helps him to pick up his sharpness quickly. He certainly hasn’t lost any of his speed.”

Indeed, that tireless work ethic has cemented Ross’s importance to the side, with his off-the-ball efforts in Saturday’s 3-0 win at Hamilton almost as impressive as his brace. Almost.

While nominally a more attacking player than Ross Matthews — currently biding his time on the bench — Ross’s willingness to harry, press and snap into tackles has ensure Rovers remain solid.

“He’s a 12km-a-game (distance covered) player,” revealed McGlynn. “His stats are right up there with any of our players.

“He is not afraid of hard work — that’s for sure.

“On Saturday, his pressing of the ball was excellent. There were several occasions where he won possession high up the pitch — a big part of what we want to do.

“I’m excited to see what else he can bring to us.”

Ethan Ross has made a great start with Raith Rovers.