Malky Mackay insists he is not entertaining the thought of a top six finish in the Scottish Premiership this season, speaking ahead of Celtic’s visit to Ross County this weekend.
The Bhoys travel to Dingwall to face the Staggies after their impressive top half placing in the top-flight last term.
Earning plaudits for their performance away to Hearts at the weekend, albeit in defeat, plenty are tipping County to have another strong campaign this time around.
However, for Mackay, it’s all about survival and he’s laid out the reason why.
Speaking to The Press & Journal, he said: “The aim is to stay in the Premiership for Ross County. We have one of the smallest, if not the smallest budgets in this league.
“It’s a huge turnaround of players again this summer. Hopefully next year we don’t have that and it will only be two or three that need to come in, because we have people on contracts.
“That will mean the group will be a stable, steady squad. With the size of turnaround again this year, staying in the division is Ross County’s starting point. After that, we will see where we can go. It was the exact same last year.
“Top-six was terrific for the club last year, it really was. I also see Hibs and Aberdeen spending big, so I’m fully aware of where everything is. We just need to make sure we keep putting in performances like we did on Saturday.”
Mackay has utilised the loan market well in recent years and his team certaintly took everyone by surprise last term, finishing above Hibernian and Aberdeen amongst others.
Ross County was tricky destination for Celtic last term too, needing a last ditch Anthony Ralston goal to pick up a December win before another tough 2-0 victory in April.
They won’t be making it easy this weekend, small budget or not.
With a knockout cup clash up north coming up too, we’re about to get very familiar with Mackay’s new group and hopefully we can make our undoubted advantages count with two straightforward wins.
In other news, Aberdeen defender taking inspiration from Celtic after Sunday lesson.
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