MARK Russell insists he’s looking forward to playing with Morton’s new strikers this season as they bring more options up front.

New signings Bob McHugh and Robert Thomson offer different skill sets from the likes of Gary Oliver and Jai Quitongo and Russell is excited about the prospect of having new targets to aim at with his deliveries from the left flank.

He told the Tele: “The new boys we’ve got in up front are different types of players from what we’ve had here before. And my job, really, is to just create as many chances for them as possible. I’m sure they’ll be able to take them.

“With Robert Thomson in there it means being able to maybe hang a few crosses up, play up to his chest or whatever. But I’ll continue to create as many chances as possible for the team.”

Russell has been Morton’s first choice left-back for a number of seasons now, but youngster Lewis Strapp is knocking on the door in an effort to dislodge the 21-year-old from his spot. And Russell is relishing the challenge to keep Strapp on the bench — because competition within a squad makes for better players.

He added: “The competition between myself and Lewis Strapp is a good thing for the team. It makes me work that wee bit harder having Strappy there. 

“If I play well, I’d like to think I’d keep the jersey, but if my performances aren’t up to standard he’s always there to come in.

“He’s looking to do well as well. Competition is always good for any team.”