Jags boss – Cruickshank switch 'came out of the blue'
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Strathspey Thistle caretaker boss Brian Ritchie is hoping that hard work put in during the unplanned winter break will prepare his side for a return to Highland League action on Saturday.
The Jags' head of football development took the interim reigns following the resignation of Charlie Brown on December 13 – but a string of weather-related postponements since then has delayed his return to the dugout.
He is now looking to kick the new year off at Mosset Park with a good showing against Forres Mechanics.
The quiet spell has afforded the new manager, along with his backroom team of Craig Ireland and Robert Flett, a chance to assess the squad.
Ritchie said: "The break has allowed us to put in some hard work with regards to the players fitness levels and general game management. We’ve had running sessions on the beach in Nairn, on the astro surface at Ross County and have also used indoor facilities at Dalfaber Resort in Aviemore.
"Every one of the players has given their full commitment to what has been asked of them. We are looking forward to hopefully getting playing again on Saturday. All that we ask of our players is that they take on board what we ask, work as hard as they possibly can for each other and put everything we have worked on over the past three weeks into play."
During the break, the manager has added Ross Logan from Clachnacuddin to the squad just before Christmas, and loanees Seamus McConnaghy and Rory Williamson from Nairn County.
But this week, the Jags suffered an unanticipated setback with the departure of promising player Aidan Cruickshank.
It was confirmed on Monday that the 17-year-old Elgin City forward had been recalled from his loan, and will now join Nairn County until the end of the season.
The manager was taken by surprise by the player leaving.
He said: "Aidan moving on was a blow and came a little out of the blue to be honest. Craig and I obviously didn’t get the chance to work with him but I feel we have a fantastic replacement coming on board with Ross Logan joining us on a permanent contract.
"Ross will play a significant roll in how we want to play and will also provide a goal and assist threat going forward. He will also give us a huge work rate whenever he is playing as he is a natural hard worker along with being a hugely talented footballer."
Cruickshank, who also previously played of North Junior Super League outfit Dufftown, scored 3 goals in 11 league games for the Jags throughout the first half of the season.
Messrs Logan, Williamson and McConnaghy are all expected to be available for selection on Saturday.
