Antonio Reguero begins his attempt to claim the goalkeeper position at Ross County today.
The former Caley Thistle goalkeeper is expected to feature for the Staggies at Wick Academy today as Derek Adams gives his players their first run in preparation for the new campaign.
Reguero, who moved to the Dingwall from Kilmarnock, has been brought in to challenge Mark Brown for the jersey.
There will be plenty of mutual respect between the pair but also a rivalry for the position.
Reguero said: “In every team in the Scottish Premiership, you have to compete with good keepers.
“I know Mark Brown and he is a good player as well. I will try to train hard every single week and, after that, results and performances will dictate who is picked.
“This is the focus, all of my life – hard work. After that, whether I play or not is not my decision.
“I strive to play every single game I can.”
The 32-year-old is eager to get his career going again after a disappointing season with Killie, where he failed to feature in a single first team match.
The Spaniard’s move to Rugby Park under former manager Kenny Shiels was to turn into one of the most frustrating of his career, particularly under Shiels’ successor Allan Johnston.
The goalkeeper said: “The biggest thing about Kilmarnock was they offered me a two-year contract. Kenny Shiels was there and, speaking to him, everything seemed right.
“It was a good chance for me but, after that, Kenny was sacked and another manager came in. It just didn’t work out.”
Summer signings, midfielder Joe Cardle and attackers Jake Jervis and Liam Boyce are expected to feature for the Staggies at Harmsworth Park.