Caley Thistle defender Collin Seedorf is determined to force his way into John Robertson’s Inverness backline in the coming weeks.
Dutchman Seedorf, the nephew of former AC Milan and Real Madrid midfielder Clarence Seedorf, joined the Highlanders from RKC Waalwijk in the summer but suffered ankle ligament damage in a bounce match against an army select side at Fort George in August.
Manager Robertson has already confirmed defenders David Raven and Matthew Elsdon will leave in January and having made a strong first impression in the opening weeks of the season, Seedorf is eager to pick up from where he left off.
Seedorf, who has not appeared since being sent-off in a 1-1 draw at home to today’s opponents Morton on August 19, said: “I was injured after a couple of games at the start of the season when I did well.
“But I got the injury from a friendly game and I have been out for two months. As is usual, since recovering, I have just been trying to get back in the squad.
“The team has been doing well, setting the clean sheet record and stuff like that. I have enjoyed that but obviously want to play.
“It is difficult when you come to a new country and can’t play but it is a learning moment too. I am still a young player and this was my first big injury. It was new to me to not be playing.
“But the manager talks with me a lot and works me hard because he knows what I can do to help the team.
“I am just getting ready to go again. In football, the team is as strong as your weakest player. You need a good starting 11 and bench providing competition. A couple of players are leaving this winter, so it is a chance for me to get going again. I can’t wait.”
Despite his lengthy injury lay-off, Seedorf has already warmed to life in the Highlands, with the 22-year-old adding: “The fans around the city have been amazing. I feel at home. It is difficult for a player to come to another country and play your game.
“At the start of the season, I just did my thing and they appreciated it and gave me great backing, singing my name.
“That’s what is keeping me going. I want to be 100% fit so I can enjoy that again and do great things for the club.
“I would say nobody else in Inverness looks like me, so everybody recognises me even if I just go to the store or take a walk through town.
“They greet me, ask for pictures but, more than that they ask me how I am doing and when I will be back playing after injury. They even ask if I need anything which really makes me feel appreciated and happy here.
“It has helped me massively through these rough moments.”