Wedderburn joins Caley Thistle

Nat Wedderburn admitted he was ready for the challenge of Premiership football after leaving Cowdenbeath to join Inverness Caley Thistle yesterday.

The 23-year-old defender agreed a one-year deal with an option of another 12 months with the Scottish Cup winners.

Wedderburn said: “It’s great to be joining a club which has been successful recently.

“The step up to this level will be a challenge, but I’m ready to take it.

“I don’t expect to go straight into the team. It’s like when you go to any new club, you have to earn that right, but I am here to work hard and play my part.”

Thistle boss John Hughes has been a long-time admirer of the centre-back, who made over 70 appearances for Cowden and has also played for Stoke City, Notts County, Hereford and Northampton.

Hughes said: “Nat will be a great addition for the club.

“He is a big strong lad with good speed and agility. He is joining a great club at a fantastic time and we look forward to him developing in to a regular first-team player. He is stepping up a few levels, but we know he is well capable of doing so.”

While Wedderburn has checked in, chairman Kenny Cameron confirmed Nigerian front man Edward Ofere is moving on.

He said: “It’s good to be able to announce the first of our summer signings ahead of the players returning to training next week and we welcome Nat to Inverness.”

Nat Wedderburn: prepared to bide his time.