 The somewhat surprised player found himself offloaded to First Division side Ross County, where his former mentor Alex Smith was now manager, in June 2003.McCunnie spent two seasons playing for the Dingwall club, during which time he was converted from right back to a defensive midfield role.His Ross County contract was due to expire in 2005 and he was keen to seek a return to a higher level of football, with a move to English football a distinct possibility.