Manager says there are more options than ever at Ross County
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Malky Mackay says he has as many options at his disposal as he ever has at Ross County with more players returning to fitness.
It was a notable effect of the summer transfer window that the Staggies boss has more strength in depth, which in turn allows him to show tactical flexibility.
One key element of that, though, is keeping players fit – otherwise Mackay could find himself in a similar position to the end of last season, where teams are picked on little more than who is available.
As County return from the international break against Livingston, then, Mackay was heartened to see Scott Allardice return to training.
Max Sheaf is due to follow suit next week, meaning Mackay’s squad is as strong as he can remember going into the weekend.
“We’re not far off a full strength squad,” Mackay revealed.
“We’ve got all the little knocks and bruises cleared up, so Allardice and Sheaf are the short-term ones that are still out.
“This is when I start to have selection headaches, because I have to figure out who’s on the bench.
“The players that are coming on are disappointed they’re not starting, and I’m disappointed for them that they’re not starting, there can be very little reasoning between them starting and not starting.
“The fact that they’re coming on and improving the team is a good place for Ross County to get to. Strength in depth makes a big difference – we even saw that with Scotland against England.”
Staggies fans may have to wait a little longer to see Scott High in action though, as the midfielder limped off after scoring in County’s North of Scotland Cup win at Golspie on Wednesday night.
The only other setback is Dylan Smith, who picked up a knock with Scotland’s under-19s and will miss a couple of weeks.
n Smith proves captaincy potential with 19s – page 39
