Keatings wants Caley Thistle starting spot back at expense of protégé

James Keatings is dedicating time to mentoring Roddy MacGregor at Caley Thistle – just as he tries to oust him from the starting 11.

The former Hearts, Hibs and Hamilton Accies attacker has returned to fitness to find the club’s prodigy in possession of the jersey he filled so impressively before injury.

Manager John Robertson tasked Keatings with nurturing the 17-year-old youth academy graduate after his breakthrough back in the summer.

It is a role he revels in, wholeheartedly putting in extra hours on the training ground to help hone MacGregor’s raw talents.

But the harsh reality of the professional game is cut-throat competition, with Keatings eager to regain his place as quickly as possible.

That chance may or may not come this weekend at Morton, but should beckon within the week as Robertson spreads squad resources across three matches in seven days.

Keatings said: “Roddy is a great wee player. He is only 17 years of age and it is easy to forget that.

“I’ve said to a few of the boys that I can see he has all the attributes to be a top player. All he needs to do is keep adding small bits to his game.

"But the reality is I've got to get him out of the team."

Read more in today's Highland News.

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