Terry Butcher thrilled by Chris Hogg return

The former Easter Road skipper left Inverness at the end of last season to seek a club closer to family in England.

But after his latest trial at Crewe Alexandria came to nothing, Thistle manager Butcher finally got his man back, on a one-year deal.

A delighted Butcher said: "We never wanted Chris to leave in the first place.

"I'd always held a place open for him but I understood his wishes to move closer to his family. That was his main priority. For one reason or another, it hasn't worked out but I'm just delighted to have his experience and talent back here.

"I've now signed two experienced players in Welsh international Owain Tudur Jones and Chris in the last couple of days. I feel we've replaced the experienced players we've lost with real quality.

"We've now got genuine competition in defence with Chris, Ross Tokely, Tom Aldred, Josh Meekings, Thomas Piermayr, David Proctor, Kenny Gillet and Graeme Shinnie.

"Both Thomas and Chris go straight into the squad for the Hibs game."

Hogg, 26, started out in York City's youth system before a switch to Ipswich and then joined Hibs in 2005.

His six-year career in Leith ended abruptly early this year after losing his place and the captaincy and he penned a short-term deal with Caley Thistle.

On his departure in May after ten appearances with Inverness, Butcher vowed to keep the door open for the big centre half's return.