Caley Thistle’s Carl Tremarco says the departure of Iain Vigurs leaves a massive hole but he will not hold a grudge over him joining neighbours Ross County.
It was announced yesterday that Vigurs had informed Caley Jags of his intention to rejoin County and, while Tremarco expected the news, he wishes the club’s player of the year well in his new venture.
Vigurs was joined out the exit door yesterday by Jake Mulraney as manager John Robertson brought in Dumbarton’s Tom Walsh as well as Angus Beith from Hearts in a swap deal for Mulraney.
The two Highland sides will come up against each other in next season’s Championship and Tremarco will not dwell on the news of his departure.
Tremarco said: “It’s disappointing for us but if I’m in his position, I’m doing what’s best for me.
“If he thinks they’re more capable of getting promoted than us, so be it. It is what it is, I’m not one to hold grudges, just because he leaves to better himself.
“He leaves a massive hole. He showed with his performances last season he’s head and shoulders above everyone and he’ll be a big miss.
“Someone has now got the chance to take his spot and show what they’re capable of. County are gaining a player that knows the league and has done really well.”
County began their own clearout yesterday after relegation with six first-team players leaving. Once Vigurs completes his move, he will join former Caley Jags players Billy Mckay and Ross Draper at Dingwall.
While Tremarco looks forward to having the Highland derby back next season and renewing acquaintances with close friend Draper, he feels the area needs to have representation in the top flight.
He said: “I’m disappointed they’ve come down because we need something in the Premiership here. You can end up falling away as a region. There’s still some excitement in the area but we need a team in the Premiership to attract players and coverage, not just for the team but for the area. It thrives on tourism and when teams fall away, it’s a less attractive place to come. It’s disappointing that we’re both out of it but there’s four games between us next season with four decent crowds.
“If we’re not aiming to win the league next season, then what’s the point? Just because County have come down, doesn’t mean we can’t win it. There’ll be about six teams that think they can win it.
“When you’re coming up against mates, friendship goes out of the window. There will be a few 50-50s and no-one will be shirking out of it.”