MORTON manager Kenny Shiels has praised striker Garry O’Connor and insisted he has been pleased with his commitment since joining the club in January.

Cappielow chief Douglas Rae criticised former Scotland cap O’Connor for a lack of fitness in a recent interview with the Tele.

And although Ton boss Shiels refused to discuss his chairman’s views, he expressed his satisfaction with the 30-year-old’s efforts.

He told the Tele: “Garry’s attitude and commitment has been excellent. He makes a five-hour journey every day: two-and-a-half hours to training and back.

“He has to travel through the two major cities [Glasgow and Edinburgh] at peak traffic times but never misses a session and still comes over for treatment if he’s injured.

“In hindsight, when you sign a player you don’t think how far he lives away from the training ground. I’m sure that has had an impact.

“He’s also had three injuries that have obstructed his potential. The Achilles, calf, and quad injuries have partially curtailed his impact.

“And if anyone’s worthy of blame, it’s myself because I’m the manager and I make the selections. If I select Garry it’s my decision so I’m the one who should be blamed rather than the player.”