Ross County’s sixth summer signing Stewart Murdoch is determined to make the most of his return to Scottish football.
The 25-year-old midfielder has become the latest recruit to the Dingwall side after being released by English League 1 club Fleetwood Town at the end of last season.
County manager Jim McIntyre has already strengthened his squad by bringing in Queen of the South midfielder Ian McShane, Partick Thistle goalkeeper Scott Fox, Dundee United’s Brian Graham and Michael Gardyne as well as Hartlepool United left back Darren Holden.
Murdoch, who was born in Aberdeen and came through the youth ranks at Falkirk, struggled to establish himself as a first team regular at Fleetwood, spending part of last season on loan at Northampton Town.
But after two years in English football, Murdoch, who has signed a two-year contract, feels ready to shine in the Scottish Premiership.
He said: “I’m at the age now where I’m supposedly coming into my best football years. I need to make sure they really are my best years and I’m playing regularly and performing.
“I’m looking forward to getting the opportunity to earn a regular place in the team.
“The manager said to me there have been quite a few changes and he’s having to make a few signings. He’s bringing in a few players on two-year deals so, between now and the first day of pre-season, I need to get myself ready to go.
“I’ve had two years down south with Fleetwood but they’ve also been making a few changes, losing about 12 players. This chance came up and it’s a great opportunity for me.
“I haven’t played much in the Premiership, so it is an exciting chance for me. Although I didn’t play as much as I would have liked down south, I feel I’m a better player for the experiences I’ve had.”
Murdoch has been brought to County as a replacement for Martin Woods, who signed for Shrewsbury Town in May.
The former Falkirk player made only five league starts for Fleetwood Town last season but has no regrets about his time spent south of the border.
He said: “The bulk of my football in Scotland came in the old First Division so my time at Fleetwood and the loan spell at Northampton was a step up for me.
“Adapting to that and moving away from home for the first time, and also learning from other players and coaches, has really helped me.
“Not playing as much as I’d have liked, I’ve had to face up to the adversity and work as hard as I could to get chances again.
“I feel much more ready for Scotland’s top flight than I would have, not just as a player but as a person. I feel I’m ready to stamp my authority on central midfield.”