Inverness Caley Thistle midfielder closes in on century of appearances
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RODDY MacGregor knows he can secure a century landmark with Caley Thistle in October – if he can get back in the team.
The talented young midfielder stepped out for his 96th competitive game against Motherwell in August, sustaining torn ankle ligaments and exiting the League Cup clash at half-time.
That kept the 20-year-old out until number 97, a late substitute’s return in Saturday’s narrow win away to Ayr United.
The recent injury held added frustration for MacGregor given that two extended periods in the treatment room last season led to just five appearances after the festive period.
The challenge now is to shoe-horn himself back into a starting 11 currently picking up form and momentum after three crucial league victories and a cup win.
Nobody, though, should doubt that MacGregor will reach the 100-match tally before too long.
“Fiona McWilliams, our club secretary, told me I was approaching 100 games. It is remarkable how time flies!” MacGregor reflected.
“I’ve racked up those games at quite a young age and it definitely helps in your development. To be fair, a lot of games at the start of my career were off the bench, but recently I’ve been more of a mainstay.
“Getting to 100 games will definitely be something to be proud of and one I’ll be looking to build on as well.
“I’m buzzing to be back. The injury wasn’t ideal, but I’ve only missed two league games and Brechin City in the cup.
“The team have done really well, with some very good results in the last three games - all away wins.
“It is going to be tough to get back in the team, but the more bodies we can get back the better for the squad.
“I’m just looking forward to challenging and trying to get back in.”
Caley Thistle were “hurting” after a 4-1 thrashing in front of live cameras away to Partick Thistle, this Friday’s opponents, back on August 19. It was the start of three consecutive defeats prior to MacGregor’s injury.
The midfielder added: “That day we were just massively off the pace, but we know we can perform far better than that.
“We know we can beat them if we play to our best.”
