Four depart from Ross County as Derek Adams wields axe

ROSS County manager Derek Adams yesterday axed four members of his squad – and is looking to cut a deal with Partick Thistle for Steven Craig.

Russell Duncan, Kurtis Byrne, Joe Malin and Jon Bateson all agreed contract terminations with the Dingwall club.

Striker Craig, who is currently on loan at First Division leaders Partick until the end of this month, will also be allowed to leave if agreement is reached between the player, Thistle and County.

Adams confirmed: “Partick Thistle have enquired about Steven and want to take him down there, so they have to try to sort out a deal.

“If they can agree a deal, I will let Steven go. They are obviously riding high at the top of the First Division and want to strengthen their squad.

“If Partick can come up with a deal that is suitable to the player and to Ross County, then he will leave.

“If that doesn’t happen, then Steven will come back here at the end of December.”

As for the four definite departures, Adams hopes to use the cash freed up to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window. Duncan spent two seasons with County after over a decade at Caley Thistle. Former Hibs striker Byrne failed to hold down a regular place, while keeper Malin spent seven years with the club without breakthrough. Bateson, signed from Macclesfield Town in the summer, failed to make a first-team appearance.