Stenhousemuir spell helped Paton prepare for Premiership life
Canadian midfielder Harry Paton believes his time spent in the lower leagues in Scottish football helped prepare him for a first Premiership start for Ross County against St Mirren last weekend.
Paton joined the Staggies in the summer of 2018, but spent the first half of last season out on loan at his former club Stenhousemuir.
He had helped Stenny win promotion from League Two, and settled back into life at Ochilview Park as they adjusted to League One football.
A return to Dingwall followed in January, making a handful of appearances as County lifted the Championship, winning promotion back to Scottish football’s top flight.
With injuries to Lewis Spence, Don Cowie and Ross Draper, as well as the departure of Jamie Lindsay to Rotherham United, Paton has been a regular part of matchday squads this season.
That culminated with a first 90 minutes in the Premiership last weekend, and he points to each stage of his journey as having taught him something that he could use.
“I’ve been really patient, waiting for it,” Paton said.
“I wasn’t told until Friday and was really looking forward to the game. It was great to hear the news I got the nod to start.
“I definitely really enjoyed being out there with the boys and fighting for the win.
“I went down the leagues to get some experience. All of that has really helped me to get to this point here."
Read more in today's North Star.