McHattie: Robertson inspires Caley Thistle squad to play to full potential
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Kevin McHattie says that the relationship that Inverness Caledonian Thistle manager John Robertson has with the playing squad spurs them on to play at their best.
McHattie signed for Caley Thistle in January on a free transfer, but he has known Robertson for years going back to the pair's time at Hearts.
The 25-year-old feels that the familiarity the ICT boss has with him, and vice-versa, helps him to reach his full potential.
"I've known him for a while now, and he knows what I'm all about and I know what he's all about," McHattie said.
"It's good to have that kind of relationship with him, I think it helps me and him.
"I think he's got that relationship with all the boys here, so it's massive to have that and it gives you the confidence to go on to the park and do what you can."
While the club have made five signings this summer, McHattie was one player who chose to extend his stay by signing a new contract.
But he has paid tribute to the work Robertson has done in the transfer market, being forced to wheel and deal at times due to ICT's financial situation after relegation from the Scottish Premiership.
"I spoke to him maybe a few months before the end of the season, and he said he would like to keep me up here," the full back recalled.
"It was obviously great to get that done and still be here.
"Any team in Scotland you go to, barring the top teams, you're going to have a small budget. It's hard to pick and choose players and get deals tied up and things like that.
"He's done very well, he's done magnificently. Coming up here and getting them to where they are in the league, play-offs and semi finals, it's a great achievement."
McHattie picked up a thigh strain earlier in pre-season, before returning to training on Thursday and taking to the pitch against St Johnstone at Grant Street Park last night.
Last season though he was utilised in a variety of roles, including full back, wing back and central midfield.
His variety was mirrored in the team at the end of the season, as Robertson changed the side's shape in the play-off semi finals.
"In the Dundee United game, we went with three at the back and wing backs, which was something new to us," McHattie explained.
"I think we picked up on that really well, a few of the boys enjoyed playing it, so I don't know what the manager is thinking – obviously he picks the team and the formation – but it gives us another option to break teams down."
