NEW St Mirren signing Ian McShane believes he is joining a side capable of competing at the top end of the Championship this season. The midfielder has completed a two-year deal after being released by Ross County and could make his debut for Jack Ross’ men in this afternoon’s Betfred Cup tie away to Stranraer.

The 24 year-old knows Saints assistant James Fowler and striker Gavin Reilly from his time at Queen of the South, and also played alongside Rocco Quinn at County, and believes the squad he has joined should be pushing for promotion.

The Paisley side have been installed as second-favourites for the title by some bookmakers on the back of a strong finish last season and their latest recruit can understand why.

McShane said: “I was delighted to hear of the interest and I can't wait to get going. I think there is a good squad here and I think we can go and do something at the top end of the league. It's good when you come in and know people and they tell you what the club is about. It's nice to have a few familiar faces there on the first day.

“I can't wait to get going now and hopefully playing regular football again. I played a couple of friendly games and took part in every training session at Ross County. It was a tough few weeks we had, but I'm glad to be here and have everything sorted.”

McShane also spoke to St Mirren legend and former County team-mate Jason Naismith who also raved about his old club. The midfielder told the St Mirren official website: “I spoke to Jason about it and he said he loved it here. He had brilliant things to say so that put my mind at ease about coming here.”

McShane only played 11 times for County last season and didn’t feature again after appearing against Celtic in December. He becomes St Mirren’s eighth new signing of the summer, joining Cammy Smith, Jordan Kirkpatrick, Gregor Buchanan, Craig Samson, Dale Hilson and the two Ross Stewarts.