Greg Morrison is determined to grasp the chance presented by Ross County’s injury troubles and prove he can lead the attack in the Premiership.
The farmer’s son from Keith, could find himself ploughing a lone furrow up front after the international break with Northern Ireland’s Liam Boyce and fellow forward Craig Curran joining Alex Schalk on the injury-list.
County hope to discover today how serious Boyce’s medial ligament damage is, while Curran’s calf problem will also be assessed.
Questions remain as to whether Dutchman Schalk will be ready to return from a medial ligament injury in time to face Aberdeen at Pittodrie on October 15.
For Morrison, an 18-year-old who has excited the County coaching staff with his promise and powerful physique, opportunity knocks.
Fresh from making his first start for the club in the 2-0 defeat to St Johnstone, the teenager said: “It was a disappointing result but, as my first start, I loved it. It was a very proud moment and I was happy enough with my game.
“We just need to move on to the next game and keep the heads up. We raised our game at the start of the second half, but then petered out again after they scored their second goal.”
Morrison only learned he would lead the attack on the afternoon of the game but, luckily, had family there to witness the big moment.
He said: “My mum was here so that was terrific. I gave her a last-minute text to say I was starting.
“I’m from Keith and I come from a farming background. I get reminded of it every day by the lads at training. It’s just jokes. They say I’ve got big farmer’s strength and that sort of thing and that I milk cows when I go home. That used to be the case when I was at home but now I’m in digs in Dingwall.
“When I do go back home I still help out on the farm when I’m needed. Before I signed professional terms with County, I grew up helping on the farm when I got home from school. But I know which job I enjoy better. I suppose working hard on the farm helped build my strength, which is paying off now.”