Player Interview: Robertson's Return
One new signing has slipped somewhat unannounced into the Nairn County squad ahead of next season as manager Les Fridge began his preparations for the 2009-10 campaign ahead of schedule.
For when Jason Robertson arrived back at the club, to some it was literally as if he had never been away. And that is understandable considering the 21-year-old had still technically been a County player up until just a few months ago.
Still, it was a surprise to see the striker handed an immediate start only a few weeks after returning to
Robertson was plucked from the County youth ranks at an early age by Inverness CT who he represented at under-14 and under-16 levels. But a return to Station Park came in 2004 when he linked up with Martin Bell's successful under-19 squad, which produced players such as Callum Donaldson, Glenn Main, Wayne Mackintosh, Gregg Main and Marc MacDonald.
The striker's talents caught the attention of Fridge back in 2005 when the manager handed the then 17-year-old his first start for the club in an away match at Cove Rangers at the end of his first season in charge. Several fleeting appearances followed but for the majority of the next season, Robertson spent his time on loan at Nairn St Ninian.
But his progress was halted drastically when a change in work circumstances meant that he would be available on a limited basis the following season. Therefore, the forward opted to step back down to the junior ranks with Nairn St Ninian during season 2007-08 and that arrangement was continued into this season. The deal was then made permanent as Robertson's stint at County came to an end. However, his time away from Station Park hasn't lasted long and he is now a Nairn County player again.
Speaking exclusively to Nairn County FC Online, Robertson said: "Things weren't working out for me at Saints and it was just one of those things. I asked to come back here to train with County and hopefully re-sign because I know most of the lads here and I know the standard of football is good.
"I was delighted that the gaffer involved me in the last two games. It has made me even hungrier to do well next season, which will hopefully be a good one for me. I have set myself a few targets and hopefully after a good pre-season under my belt, I will be able to achieve those targets."
Robertson still retains the job offshore that brought a premature end to his spell at Station Park last time out. But the player remains philosophical about how that will impact upon his ability to establish himself at the club. He stated: "I have decided on a career where I will only be available for half of the year. It is just one of those things but football has always been a big part of my life so I am just glad that Les has given me the opportunity to play when I am at home. I understand that it will be difficult but hopefully I can train well and be used if need-be as a good squad player.
"If given the chance, I am looking to get back to my best and hopefully get a few goals along on the way."
Having just toasted the arrival of his first child at the end of last week, Robertson will be keen to have another reason for celebration once the new season gets underway.