Ross County manager Jim McIntyre has tipped new signing Andrew Davies to shine in his role as club captain.
Bradford City defender Davies yesterday agreed a two-year contract at Victoria Park, joining Port Vale centre half Chris Robertson and former Rangers and Aberdeen full back Richard Foster in signing for the Dingwall club.
Former England under-21 international Davies has spent his entire career in England, with spells at Middlesbrough, Southampton and Stoke City, and has made 125 appearances for Bradford since joining the Bantams in 2011.
McIntyre is glad the captaincy has been resolved following the release of club skipper Richard Brittain and departure of defender Paul Quinn, who wore the armband in Brittain’s injury absence last season.
McIntyre said: “When we lost our two captains, it was something I was keen to find. Although Richard was still club captain, he was out with an injury.
“We just felt with losing Paul Quinn we needed that leader, that we were missing and we’ve managed to do that. Andrew has got a wealth of experience.
“A lot gets made of the captaincy at times. There were some fantastic pros here from last year who are more than capable of leading us as well.
“I just feel Andrew has all the attributes required. He’s a natural leader.”
McIntyre was pleased to further bolster his defensive options yesterday, with the additions of Robertson and Foster in addition to the capture of Davies.
The Staggies boss added: “The three have got experience. I know Richard well from playing against him over the years and working with him at Bristol City.
“I know the attributes he brings. He’s at a good age, and he’s local – he’s from just down the road. It’s a perfect fit.
“Richard is a terrific professional who sets good standards every day on and off the park.
“Chris is 28 and has good experience in the English lower leagues.”
McIntyre also confirmed he remains keen on bringing midfielder Jackson Irvine back to the club after the Australian returned to parent club Celtic following a loan spell with the Highlanders last season.
McIntyre added: “Jackson is someone we’ve spoken to and we’ll hopefully have a decision about that in the next few days.”
Meanwhile, County have confirmed two opponents for their pre-season tour of Hungary later this month, with a game against Soroksar SC on July 14 followed by a match against Szolnoki MAV on July 18.