Ross County’s strategic recruitment aims to enhance squad depth

Manager Don Cowie emphasizes the importance of diverse player attributes in recruitment.

In a decisive move to bolster his squad, Ross County manager Don Cowie has made significant strides in the January transfer window. With the addition of two new players, Cowie is keen on introducing different dimensions to his team, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead in the Premiership.

New arrivals bring fresh perspectives

The latest addition to the squad is Kieran Phillips, a forward from Huddersfield Town, who joined the team on Monday. His arrival follows that of midfielder Nohan Kenneh, who has returned for a second loan stint from Hibernian.

Cowie believes both players bring essential qualities that were previously lacking in the squad.

Cowie expressed his enthusiasm for Kenneh’s return, stating, “He’s totally different to the other midfielders we have. He has a real physical presence in that area, and he is chomping at the bit.” Kenneh’s impact was evident in recent matches, where his physicality and determination helped the team navigate tough away games.

Adapting to the competition

Phillips, on the other hand, offers a different profile compared to the current center forwards. Having enjoyed a successful loan spell in America with Sacramento Republic, he is known for his ability to exploit defensive weaknesses. Cowie noted, “Kieran is physical to look at, but his main strength is he wants to play on the last shoulder and get in behind teams.” This adaptability is crucial for Cowie, who emphasizes the need for players with varied attributes to effectively counter different opponents.

“You want as many options as you can get, and we’re still working on having that,” Cowie added, highlighting the importance of a diverse squad. The manager’s strategy is to ensure that every player is prepared to step up and make an impact when called upon, which has been evident in recent performances.

Strengthening the goalkeeping position

In addition to field players, Cowie has also secured goalkeeper Jordan Amissah on a new deal until the end of the season. Amissah, who stepped in as cover for the injured Ross Laidlaw, has played a pivotal role in the team’s recent success, helping them secure 10 points in their last four matches. Cowie praised Amissah’s performance, stating, “He has grabbed his opportunity really well.”

With the squad now strengthened both in attack and defense, Cowie is optimistic about the team’s prospects as they aim to climb the Premiership table. The manager’s focus on recruiting players with diverse skill sets reflects a broader strategy to enhance the team’s competitiveness and adaptability in the league.