Time for County’s stand-ins to shine

Ross County defender Keith Watson is confident the Staggies have the strength in depth to continue their defensive improvement in the absence of key players.

The Staggies will be without right-back Connor Randall for today’s trip to Motherwell, following his dismissal in last weekend’s 0-0 draw against Hibernian.

Fellow defender Callum Morris faces a lengthy absence in order to stave off a calf injury, while Coll Donaldson is also doubtful for the trip to Fir Park with a groin problem.

County have recorded four clean sheets in their opening round of fixtures, conceding 16 goals compared to 23 at the equivalent stage last term.

Left-back Josh Reid returns following a period of self- isolation, having been part of the Scotland under-19 camp when head coach Billy Stark tested positive for coronavirus.

With Tom Grivosti also returning following a yearlong absence with a foot injury, Watson believes County have the options to keep their rearguard tight no matter who is selected.

Watson said: “We have got a big squad here, and a good enough one that we can chop and change when we need to.

“We did a lot of work on the training pitch based on certain formations. Whatever the manager decides to play we are well worked at it, and I’m happy to slot in wherever I’m needed.

“We work on defensive aspects to try to get a good understanding of how each other plays.

“It’s good to do that, because when it comes to 3pm on a Saturday we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and can help each other out.

“The management team is always looking to improve the squad and make it better. I think we definitely have a bigger and better squad. Boys need to play well most weeks if they want to keep their place in the team, which is a good thing to have.”

Although Watson has made just four starts this term, the former Dundee United and St Johnstone player has been involved in the Staggies’ last two clean sheets.

The 30-year-old is hopeful of a sustained run in the side, adding: “I have found myself in and out of the team. I have been coming on in the first half of some games due to injuries.

“It has been an up and down start for myself, but I’m happy just to help the team in any way possible.

“When I get my chance I just need to give it my all and try to make sure I stay there.

“It would be nice to get a little run in the team. The more I play, the more confidence I will get.

“I can start building on performances, starting with a good clean sheet against Hibs.

“I’m looking forward to the games coming up and hopefully I can get more game time.

“As a defender it’s always nice to keep clean sheets. First and foremost that’s your job, you want to keep them out. Hopefully that can be a little reminder to the manager I can come in and do a job for the team.”

Watson is hopeful the Staggies can build on an opening-day victory against Well when they make the trip to Fir Park, and he added: “The boys were excellent in the first game of the season.

“We will look at aspects of that and take it into the next game against Motherwell.

“I think they have picked up since then. It’s always a difficult place to go, but we have had a decent record over the years there.

“It’s different personnel in the teams, but our form has been good against them at their place.

“That’s something we will look to build on, and we are confident going into the Motherwell game.”

SUSPENDED: Ross County’s Connor Randall was sent off after fouling Hibs winger Martin Boyle.

County’s Keith Watson.