Caley Thistle manager Richie Foran believes he has unearthed a natural finisher after offering Irishman Dean Ebbe the chance to play full-time football.
Foran has made his first signing of the January transfer window with the addition of forward Ebbe from Irish third-tier side Bluebell United until the end of the season.
Ebbe began his career with Shamrock Rovers, before going on to have spells with Longford Town, Athlone Town and Cabinteely, but dropped to amateur football with Collinstown in July 2015.
Having impressed since making the move to Leinster Senior League outfit Bluebell at the start of this season, the 22-year-old has caught the eye of the Caley Jags manager after becoming his club’s leading-scorer with seven goals from 13 games. His side lead their league after 14 matches.
Dublin-born Foran invited Ebbe for a trial and has seen enough to offer the attacker the opportunity to step up to full-time football, although the Inverness manager said his latest recruit is one for the future.
Foran said: “We have signed Dean until the end of the season, which will give him time to get used to full-time training and the speed of the Scottish Premiership.
“He’s one we’re not looking at to come into the team straight away, but he comes highly recommended and has a lot of potential.
“He is a natural finisher with a great work ethic.”
Bluebell manager Andy Noonan reckons his former player can make an impact in Scottish football and said: “I’m delighted for him. His attitude is first class and he has the ability and pace and with full-time training, he’ll only become a better player.
“The sky is the limit for Dean and we’re all thrilled for him.”
Bluebell United have strong connections with Inverness with former youth goalkeeper Andy McNulty a former player while Mark Rooney, brother of former Caley Jags and Aberdeen attacker Adam, still plays for the club.
With Inverness currently bottom of the table, Foran’s focus is now likely to turn to strengthening a defence which has conceded 40 goals this season – more than any other Premiership side.
