Ross County are preparing to welcome a familiar face to Dingwall this weekend as they return to Premiership action against Dundee.
Simon Murray was a fan favourite during his 18-month stay in the Highlands. His energy and determination have always been on display over the course of his career, but a tally of 23 goals in all competitions played a huge part in the Staggies’ survival last season.
Murray’s form hit a new height when Don Cowie was named interim manager at the beginning of February. A run of 12 goals and three assists in 19 matches even had some Scotland fans calling for his inclusion in the Euro 2024 squad following the injury to Lyndon Dykes.
Cowie will be hoping to nullify the goal threat both Murray and his Dundee team-mates possess. Tony Docherty’s side are unbeaten this season and have 33 goals in all competitions, a hugely impressive tally.
However, it’s not all been perfect for Dundee as defensive frailties mean they’re yet to keep a clean sheet in their four league outings.
Apart from the 6-0 defeat by Rangers, County have been pretty solid in their Premiership matches. In contrast to Dundee, we have struggled to finish chances, with Ronan Hale’s 95th-minute equaliser against Dundee United our only goal in four league games.
The international break will have allowed Cowie time with his players on the training pitch to try to gel his new-look side together. He’ll hope they can build on some positive performances and turn chances into goals and points.
The Staggies failed to beat Dundee in the three meetings last season, drawing one and losing two. Cowie and his players will be keen to right those wrongs and pick up their first Premiership victory of the new campaign.