Double addition for the Staggies ahead of BetFred Cup encounter
Striker Lee Erwin and goalkeeper Jack Ruddy come into the County ranks
Ross County have drafted in two new recruits ahead of their match with Forfar to strengthen the side prior to the new SPFL Premiership campaign.
With the loss of goalkeeper Nathan Baxter in pre-season, Jack Ruddy comes in following his release from Wolves over the close season.
21-year-old Ruddy joins the Staggies on a six month deal, but has also spent loan spells in Spain, at FC Jumillia, SS Reyes, in England at Oldham, and in his homeland at Ayr United.
The big stopper is eager to make his mark and get his chance at County, Ruddy said to MFR News;
"I've wanted to be sorted (with a club) before the season started proper, which'll give me the chance to show what I can do in training, but I know with the two games this week that gives me the opportunity to show what I can actually do in a game"
A shoulder injury for Nathan Baxter has put paid to his start with the Staggies, and with the management team keen to secure competition for Ross Laidlaw, Stuart Kettlewell is delighted to add Ruddy to the County ranks;
"The situation's been pretty clear for the past two weeks (following the injury to Nathan) that we need to take in competition in that area of the pitch, and we've brought in someone of a good age and profile - really hungry to pitch himself in for that position - and I'm sure, even though Ross (Laidlaw) has started well, he'll admit himself we need some serious competition for places to keep him on his toes in goal"
Also coming in at County is forward Lee Erwin, with the 24-year-old striker - after his start at Motherwell - also having stints with Leeds, Bury, Oldham and Killie. Latterly though, Lee was in Iran with Tractor SC, but now feels he wants to have a steady run at a club as he matures as a player.
Speaking to MFR News, Lee said, "It's an exciting time for me and especially at the start of a new season. Some (of my experiences) worked, some didn't in the past, but the past is the past"
"I'm just focused on the future here with County, the team have done well - and are doing well - but it's a clean slate. There's four strikers and it's healthy competition, but first you have to earn the right to play, then keep up the performances to stay in the side"
Next up for County they chase another win in the BetFred Cup, as they take on Forfar in Group B, with their League One opponents also boasting a 100% record from their encounters so far.