JIM O'BRIEN has joined Ross County on a permanent deal following his loan spell in the Highlands last season.

The former Celtic midfielder made 16 Premiership appearances for the Staggies after joining from Shrewsbury Town on a temporary deal in January. 

And County announced on Thursday that the 29-year-old has now put pen to paper on a two-year deal in Dingwall, becoming the club's fourth summer signing following the arrivals of Sean Kelly, Jamie Lindsay and Tomas Mikkelsen.

"I’m delighted to bring Jim back to Dingwall on a permanent deal," said Staggies manager Jim McIntyre.

"He played a part in helping us achieve our goals in the second half of last season and he wants to come and play for us.

"At 29 years of age he has lots of experience and qualities that can help bring on the younger players in our squad."