Inverness aim for killer instinct

By Thomas McGuigan

Grant Munro was the popular choice to captain the side

If Inverness are to finish higher than last season's eighth position in the SPL, they will do so boasting a new strike force and club captain.

The winds of change have blown long and hard through the Caledonian Stadium during the close season.

Gone is goalscorer-in-chief Craig Dargo, who has joined St Mirren. Departed too, is former club captain Darren Dods, now at Dundee United.

But Inverness boss Charlie Christie will still aim for a top-six finish.

The club entertain Rangers in the televised game on 4 August and will hope the new-look can get off to a good start.

Marius Niculae is the first Romanian to play in Scotland and, after signing a two-year deal with the club, is confident of filling the void left by Dargo.

The former Mainz, Sporting Lisbon and Dinamo Bucharest player will be partnered by Dean McDonald, who has signed from Gillingham.

McDonald scored six goals in 30 appearances for the League One club last season.

Change too, in central defence, where Grant Munro has been handed the captain's armband following Dods' departure.

Munro has played more than 200 games for the Highlanders and was the popular choice after manager Christie canvassed opinion among the squad.

Marius Niculae has been brought in to sharpen Inverness' attack

The squad has also been bolstered by the arrival of midfielder Don Cowie from Ross County and goalkeeper Ally Ridgers from Clachnacuddin.

Defender Stuart Golabek, forward Gary McSwegan, goalkeeper Jonathan Smith and midfielder Stuart Soane have all left the club.

Inverness have always proved a tough nut to crack, particularly at home.

Christie's side conceded late goals against Celtic last season - in the league and the Scottish Cup - painful blows for a side that often lacked that little bit of luck and cutting edge in front of goal.

Inverness will again rely on the industry of Ian Black and John Rankin in midfield to break down opposition attacks and provide ammunition for the forwards.

The club have traditionally shied away from high-profile raids in the transfer market and will hope their new captain can inspire the youthful side to greater things.

Christie will also be hoping his new strikers give the side greater menace in front of goal and propel Inverness to the top-six finish their fans covet.