Caley Thistle defender Kevin McHattie reckons the Highlanders’ pre-season showings against Premiership opposition can provide a confidence boost ahead of the start of competitive action.
Inverness have recorded 1-1 draws in fixtures against Aberdeen and Hearts so far this week, and play their final pre-season friendly against St Johnstone at Grant Street Park tonight.
Although nothing is at stake in the warm-up matches, McHattie feels testing themselves against top-flight opposition is a valuable exercise for John Robertson’s men ahead of their first Betfred Cup group fixture at Peterhead on Tuesday.
Former Jambos player McHattie said: “Obviously, playing against teams like Aberdeen, Hearts and St Johnstone is a real test, even in pre-season.
“It’s tough – and the boys have done really well to get two draws against the Premiership sides.
“It just shows you what the boys are capable of against top Premiership teams.
“It is a really good run of games for us going into the season, preparing for teams like Dundee United who will present a similar kind of test.”
McHattie has missed the bulk of Caley Jags’ pre-season campaign due to a thigh injury he picked up in a friendly with Clachnacuddin last month, however Robertson hopes play around an hour of tonight’s match against Saints.
The 25-year-old, who signed a new two-year deal at Caledonian Stadium in the summer following his move from Derry City in January, added: “Thursday was my first time training since I strained my thigh. It’s good to be back after a week and a bit.
“I’ve just done pre-season running, without a lot of the ball. I’ll have to get that in the next few weeks.
“I’m looking forward to hopefully taking part against St Johnstone. Just getting a feel for the ball again is big for me, so hopefully I’ll get a chance.”