Boss Billy Dodds wants fans to play their part as Caley Thistle target a return to winning ways against Arbroath on Saturday.
Last week’s punishing 4-0 loss at Morton came after a 1-0 home slip-up against Hamilton Accies and a 1-1 draw against Raith Rovers.
It leaves injury-ravaged ICT three points away from high-flying front-runners Ayr United and Dodds is asking fans to stick with the team if they don’t make an early breakthrough in their quest for points.
He said: “I want the fans just to keep doing what they’ve been doing. I thought they were really good in the recent home game (1-1 draw) against Raith.
🔜 We're back in home action this weekend as we face Arbroath on Saturday
🎟️ Tickets available now, get them before 12pm on Saturday to save money
👉https://t.co/UlAYIvicUU pic.twitter.com/azaDsfzY7w
— Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC (@ICTFC) October 31, 2022
“They showed that patience in a game where we didn’t start too well.
“They stayed with us, even though it was nip and tuck throughout the game. It really helped the boys and that’s all I can ask for on Saturday. I need them to really understand where we’re at. Their backing is vital.”
Only ‘very best’ will see off visitors
ICT lost just once against Arbroath last season and knocked them out on penalties in the promotion play-offs.
This term’s sole meeting at Gayfield ended goalless and Dick Campbell’s side are bottom of the table, one point below Hamilton.
Dodds, with eight first-team players including Robbie Deas, Scott Allardice and Roddy MacGregor injured, is calling for a big performance from every one of his players.
He said: “They’re a tough opponent, like every team in this league.
“We’ve had our run-ins with them, our battles, and we’ve come out top a few times, with them coming out top on the odd occasion as well.
“We realise we’re going to have to be at our very best with what’s at our disposal to go and take three points.
“We’re short on bodies, but I’m very positive about getting a result. That’s the way I am and my players are exactly the same.
“I always say to the boys, when we’re at it we’re capable of going on a great run.
“We look forward to Arbroath. We’re still three points off top spot and we just have to hang in there.
“While we’re struggling with injuries, we just have to make sure we keep picking up results along the way.”
Allan isn’t only Arbroath threat
Inverness could well face a former successful loanee, Scott Allan, who is with Arbroath on loan from Hibs.
He’s yet to get on the scoresheet in nine appearances for the Red Lichties, but a three-month stint at the end of 2020/21 season showed what he could do when he impressed in eight games for ICT.
Dodds hopes his men can keep Allan, and his team-mates quiet, and remind people Inverness are title contenders for a reason.
He added: “Scott is a quality player who did well here on loan. He’s a great lad.
“We just have to make sure when he’s on the ball we get tight with him because he’s capable. But it isn’t just about Scott Allan.
“Arbroath, as a team, are about work ethic and team spirit. That’s why the games have been so tight.
“We expect no different, but I’d love to pick up the three points.
“I love when people think ‘they’re struggling a bit with results and injuries’. I love rising to that and I know my players have the same frame of thought as well.”
Conversation