LISTEN: Ross County ramp up preseason ahead of summer camp
County boss McIntyre 'Hungary' for more success in season 2016-17
Ahead of their season opener at Montrose, beginning the defence of their League Cup title, Ross County are readying themselves for their preseason training camp in Hungary, where Jim McIntyre's side face two tough tests, with Paksi (5th July) and Soroksar (8th July).
The Staggies boss said, "I'm really pleased with the condition of the players on their return from the summer, although it didn't surprise me because we've good professionals"
Ross County have recruited five new faces, with goalkeeper Aaron McCarey, Chris Routis, Kenny van der Weg, Jay McEveley, and also Erik Cikos who returns for another spell at County.
McIntyre said, "We had Erik here for the last three weeks of the season - he wasn't my player and was here under the previous management - so I had to run the eye over him and he was a bit short of fitness"
"That said, Erik's been working extremely hard in pre-season, and he's absolutely flying now"
McIntyre believes there was a need to add competition and strengthen at the back:
"I felt we needed a natural left-sider for the balance of the team, and we've certainly got that now with Jay (McEveley) and Kenny (van der Weg) and also Erik will provide good competition for Marcus (Fraser)"
Although in some squads Chris Routis has played in defence, McIntyre points out that in recent seasons he's played in midfield.
"That said, he's a versatile player who can double up at the back and in the wider areas, but mainly we see him in the centre of the park"
Securing cover for Scott Fox was also important following last season where County had a series of deputies.
"Obviously Gary Woods did well last season - particularly in the League Cup final - but bringing in Aaron (McCarey) freshens things up. He's got a good pedigree and has played at every level for the Ireland international squad bar the first team. He's got a good presence and he's a big lad"