Canadian midfielder Harry Paton wants to make an immediate impact in Ross County’s bid to win promotion back to the Premiership.
Paton has joined the Staggies on a one-year contract after being released by Hearts, having made 41 appearances during a successful spell with League 2 side Stenhousemuir last season.
That was the 20-year-old’s first taste of senior football, however Paton is confident he can prove himself in the Championship.
Paton said: “The goal is just to come here and play. I’m going to give it my all and try to prove my spot in the team.
“Last year was my first season playing men’s football, and I think it has really helped me pick out things that work and things that don’t work.
“I’ve been able to focus and look forward to a game on a Saturday, and I really enjoyed it.
“The first season I was at Hearts I had a bit of success, getting to train with the first team. I got into a few squads, and got on to the bench one or two times which was great.
“The second season I went out on loan and improve, but when I came back Craig Levein didn’t really see me in his squad for next season.
“He felt it would be beneficial for me to go and find somewhere I can continue playing and improving, as I improved a lot over my loan spell.
“Fair enough to him, he helped me out in that way. Ross County were there, they took me on board and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m eager to get going.
“Ross County are definitely one of the favourites to crack on and come back up. That’s the goal – to get promoted this season.”
Staggies co-manager Stuart Kettlewell feels Paton, who has been capped by Canada at under-20 level, can come of age in County’s side.
Kettlewell said: “He stood out during his spell with Stenhousemuir with the performances he put in. We understand that was in League 2, but both Steven Ferguson and I feel Harry is the type of player that can reach great heights.
“We are are both guys that will give him opportunities should he merit them, which we are pretty certain he will.
“We are not looking to heap pressure on him, but we think he will be exciting and we are pretty certain he will flourish.”