Liam Polworth wants to take a central role in Caley Thistle’s charge for promotion as the club set about replacing Iain Vigurs.
Towards the end of last season Polworth found himself out wide, a position familiar to him having played their under John Hughes, but sees his best performances coming from the middle of the park.
Manager John Robertson has recruited Angus Beith from Hearts, who is a central midfielder, while fellow new recruit Tom Walsh can play further forward. Charlie Trafford and Joe Chalmers are the other senior options in the centre of midfield, while teenager Kieran Chalmers – a Scotland schoolboy international – may be given the chance to step up.
But Polworth, who contributed the most assists in the Championship last season with 15, sees that area of the field as the best place for him to shine.
He said: “I definitely want to play a central role, although that’s something I will obviously have to speak to the gaffer about. That’s where I see myself playing. I relish centre-mid or the number 10 role a little bit further upfield.
“We need to see what the gaffer feels about it. I ended up playing out on the right towards the end of last season, but I don’t yet know what he thinks.”
“I don’t know if it is a case of filling the gap or someone else slotting into the position. It is just how we deal with the loss. Obviously, we all know it is a big loss to lose a player of that quality, especially in this league. He is going to be a hard man to replace. But I guess that is the job the gaffer has to do.
“Iain had a brilliant season and that reflected in people wanting to sign him before he ended up over the bridge. It could be me, it could be anyone, who takes it on. Going into a new season, we don’t know how we’re going to play or what style of football the manager will opt for.”
The excitement of the Highland derby will be back for Caley Thistle following Ross County’s relegation, with Polworth scoring in Inverness’ last win in Dingwall in March 2016.
Polworth added: “It is something a lot of people have missed over the last season. The derby always drew big attendances. To have it back is good for the Highlands. Obviously it is in a different league now but I’m sure, once the season kicks in and the two teams start winning games, there will be great excitement around those matches.”