Richie Isn't Black Sheep Of Family

Jan 6 2008 By Gordon Waddell

Hibs V Inverness Ct Saturday, Kick-Off 3.00

IAN BLACK welcomed shamed Richie Hart back to Inverness with open arms - because he insists a team that sticks together wins together.

Midfielder Hart's future in the Highlands hung by a thread after six years at the club when he was convicted for cocaine possession.

But after suspending him Caley Thistle boss Craig Brewster threw Hart a lifeline by handing him his first jersey in five months in midweek.

Now engine room partner Black reckons the 29-year-old has paid his dues and worked hard enough for the slate to be wiped clean.

As they geared up for a run at the Scottish Cup against Hibs on Saturday, Black said: "You have to be behind your boys.

"You can't let things upset the dressing-room because it carries on to the park.

"And our displays recently show what we're all about. "Richie's attitude has been brilliant. He always knew it would be hard to get back into the first team but he has worked hard and he deserves it.

"No-one made him feel unwelcome - we've got a great bunch of guys and nothing breaks the spirit that's there.

"You have to appreciate people go up and down in their careers, he had a bad spell which was unfortunate but Richie's a bright guy who has determination."

That's the kind of all for one attitude that has seen Brewster's side turn in a stunning run of form since his return to the club.

And it's also the form that has seen him put his own playing career on hold - probably for the last time.

When Brew retook the Caley reins 18 weeks ago - ironically at Easter Road - he walked in the front door knowing he had to put himself in the team after four straight league losses.

But he liked what he saw so much that day he hasn't even put himself on the bench since.

Brew said: "It has been my first game in charge of Inverness twice, the trip to Easter Road.

"And we've got a pretty good record there. I started that game and it's still the only one I've stripped for.

"I'd been playing and the week before had hit a double there for Aberdeen so I felt like I had something to offer.

"But they scored a penalty, we missed one, and that was it. "We've done well since, though. I can't fault them. The workrate and the team spirit are great and I trust them which is more important.

"I've had my good times as a player and they have to come to an end some time - probably when the season finishes."

Having been a cup winner as a player with Dundee United, Brewster knows the special experience of lifting the trophy aloft at Hampden.

And while he wouldn't have hand-picked Hibees from the hat he reckons Tommy Craig's men have more to fear.

Hibs have only won four of the sides' 11 meetings and Brewster said: "I'll be buoyant and confident going there.

"We always perform well against them so that's a good way to look at it. Every club wants a good cup run and we're no different."