Scott Davidson reckons Nairn County are capable of pushing the Highland League’s top four when the new season starts.
The former Brora Rangers and Fort William striker has faith that Ronnie Sharp’s squad has what it takes to contend with the league’s elite.
Sharp has added ex-Caley Thistle youngster Calum Howarth from Forres Mechanics this summer, while several of the under-20s have stepped up to the senior team.
Nairn finished eighth last season but earned promising results against the top three, which gives Davidson hope ahead of the new campaign.
He said: “I don’t see why we can’t challenge the top four. Ronnie drills it into us at training and at matches – he firmly believes we can get into that top four. I’m with him and I’m sure most of the boys are as well.
“Beating Brora Rangers and Inverurie Locos, as well as drawing with Fraserburgh, shows we can compete.
“I know Calum personally and I think he’ll really help us. Lewis Mitchell is a good young player and is not afraid to make a tackle in training. These boys are putting in the effort during lockdown and are gunning for a place in the squad.
“I was relieved when Gordy McNab signed a new deal too. I think he could play in any team in the Highland League. He may play a bit closer to me this season so I think we can strike up a good partnership.”
Davidson, who works for Centurion Plumbing in the Highlands, has been keeping sharp during the months without football by training with his ex-Brora team-mate Andrew Macrae.
He has also been keeping a keen eye on any announcements from the Highland League, as to when the league may get back up and running again.
Davidson added: “I listened to Rod Houston this week talking about the fixture list. Once the fixtures come out, there will be a buzz about the league again.
“I think the boys will be looking forward to any sort of training. Ronnie is the sort of guy who likes getting the ball out, so fingers crossed there won’t be too much fitness work.
“Myself and Andy have been doing a wee bit of training. You can only do so much running but you need to do the short, sharp stuff.”
