Byrne has played for the Republic of Ireland B side

St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes has signed Inverness Caledonian Thistle's Richie Byrne on a month's loan to bolster his options at left-back.

Irishman Byrne, 27, enjoyed a spell at Dunfermline before signing for Aberdeen in 2005. Craig Brewster then brought him to Inverness from Oldham.

"Richie brings an experience and ability which will be invaluable," McInnes told the club website.

Byrne is in the Saints squad to face Queen of the South.

McInnes said: "Richie has played three reserve games since overcoming injury and I travelled up to Inverness on Monday to watch him in action for Caley reserves.

"The left back role is one I have been trying to fill all season."

McInnes may be tempted to approach new Inverness manager Terry Butcher for a longer loan period if Byrne impresses.

Saints have struggled to fill the left-back role since the departure of Goran Stanic, with Hibernian loan player Paul Hanlon, Liam Craig, Inverness midfielder Alan Morgan and Paul Sheerin all having played in that position.

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