Ross County’s Joe Coyle on his Brighton trial and Highland League hopes with Invergordon

Ross County starlet Joe Coyle enjoyed his time on trial with English Premier League Brighton – but is aiming to make his mark in the Breedon Highland League this season with Invergordon.

The 17-year-old striker spent time on the south coast of England in April as he trained with the Seagulls, who finished eighth in the Premier League last season.

But Coyle returned to Ross County and has joined Highland League newcomers Invergordon, who he helped to North Caledonian League title glory last season, as part of their co-operation loan agreement with the Staggies.

Reflecting on his time at Brighton, talented teenager Coyle – who helped Newtonmore win shinty’s Camanachd Cup last year – told The Press and Journal: “It was a good experience.

“I was there for five nights and it was really good to see what it was like.

“There was a bit of a jump in terms of the standard, but other than that it’s still football.

“It wasn’t a bad thing at all for me going down to see what the level is like there.

“I really appreciate Ross County allowing me to go to Brighton to try to prove myself, you can’t ask for any more than that.”

Optimism as Invergordon step up

Coyle made his first-team debut for Ross County at the start of last season and scored twice in a League Cup rout against Edinburgh City.

He hopes a good loan stint with Invergordon can help him get closer to a regular first-team berth with the League One Staggies.

Coyle added: “Ross County have got a good pathway for players and coming on loan to Invergordon is definitely a positive for me in my development.

“I’ve had a really good pre-season and I’m excited for the season ahead.

“I just want to help the team as much as I can and see how far we can go.

“It’s a good challenge for me playing in the Highland League. I’m jumping up a level from last season in the North Caledonian League and I’m looking forward to it.”

He was encouraged by the Ross-shire side’s display, and said: “It was a good team performance.

“From the first minute to the last minute, we stuck together and ultimately I think that is what got us a positive result.

“I think it’s a very encouraging start in our first game in the Highland League.

“You don’t get much harder games than going away to Fraserburgh and we were all buzzing with the result.

“If we stick together, I think we’re capable of putting in a good shift against anyone.”

[Source: Press and Journal]