Ross County midfielder Iain Vigurs insists he has crossed the Highland derby divide too many times to be fazed by any stick he receives from Caley Thistle supporters at Victoria Park on Saturday.
Aberdeen-born Vigurs returned to County on a two-year in the summer after opting to end what was already a second stint at Inverness, with the 30-year-old preparing to face his former club this weekend.
Vigurs opened his account for the Staggies during his first spell with a goal in a 3-1 victory over Inverness at Caledonian Stadium in August 2009, in an act of revenge only months after being released by then Caley Jags boss Terry Butcher.
Although he revelled in that moment, Vigurs insists he retains plenty respect for John Robertson’s men, and he said: “It seems that long ago I scored a wee backheel. I think I actually celebrated it that hard I had to come off straight away, about five minutes after the goal. I was knackered.
“I maybe felt I had a point to prove to their management after being told I was leaving. I was just 21 so I probably had a chip on my shoulder.
“I still get on with all the boys at Inverness – the manager, Scott Kellacher and everyone.
“I really enjoyed my time at Inverness, barring the relegation, I had some good times there.
“There is no bad feeling whatsoever, although I’m sure that will all change once the game kicks off.
“I think the fans are confused as to who I actually play with – I should play with a half Caley Thistle and half County top.”
Vigurs was a standout performer for Caley Jags towards the end of last season, with the club unable to tempt him to stay at Caledonian Stadium with the offer of a three-year contract and a testimonial.
Despite County having home advantage, Vigurs believes his former club, who are a point ahead of the Staggies at the top of the Championship, will show no fear.
He added: “I think the biggest compliment that could be paid to us is the two home games we have had in the league against Alloa and Falkirk, the two teams have sat in.
“That pays a big compliment to our team, but it just proves a little bit harder to score against them.
“I seriously doubt Caley Thistle will sit in – that’s just not in the way they play.
“Playing for John Robertson last season, I think he only knows one way, and they are playing well that way.
“I think that’s the only way they can play and I don’t think they will change that on Saturday.”
