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Family ties for O’Brien held back Staggies move

Jim O'Brien is back in Ross County's squad for the trip to Ibrox.
Jim O'Brien is back in Ross County's squad for the trip to Ibrox.

Midfielder Jim O’Brien would have jumped at the chance of a permanent move to Ross County weeks ago were it not for family concerns.

After signing a two-year contract with the Premiership club, the 29-year-old said the desire to live closer to his two-year-old son James in England was the motive for seeking alternative clubs.

O’Brien made a big impact at County after arriving on loan from Shrewsbury Town last season, with manager Jim McIntyre crediting his late-season form as playing a part in the Staggies’ resurgence which kept them out of any relegation danger.

The pair kept in touch over the summer and the club will work to accommodate O’Brien’s family needs as much as possible following his release by the Shrews.

O’Brien said: “It’s been a busy week, back and forth down the road, but I was delighted to get the move to County done. The players have been really welcoming and seem happy to have me back.

“I spoke to the manager at the end of last season and said I owed it to my little boy to get somewhere closer to where he lives.

“It was never a case of not wanting to come back to Ross County as I loved my loan spell here.

“We had the opportunity to do it and I’m delighted everything has been completed.

“It’s a fresh challenge and one I’m looking forward to.”

O’Brien is impressed by the work done during the summer as County set their sights on returning to the top six this season.

He said: “The Betfred Cup has gone well for us so far, it was a big test for us on Friday night against Hibs and a difficult match, but we stood strong and came through it on penalties.”

The settling-in process has been smooth for the former Celtic, Motherwell and Barnsley man and he added: “Because I was here last season, I know what it is like living here.

“Yes, it’s a bit remote but the people are lovely.

“The players all live close by in Inverness, so there’s always company and something to do, even if it’s just going for a coffee.

“No one’s rushing home after training and that’s what makes it a good group of players to be around.

“I always knew if I was going to be coming back to Scotland, it would be to Ross County.

“I’m playing catch-up a little bit on fitness but I am starting to move better on the pitch now – and I’m really enjoying it.

“I’m nearly 30 and people tend to write you off at that age but, in my head, I still feel 18.”