STRIKER Scott Boden has turned down a fresh Newport County contract to pen a three-year deal with Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The 26-year-old forward was one of the Exiles to be offered new terms by manager Warren Feeney at the end of the season.

However, he has instead opted for a move to the Highlands where he will link up with former County captain Gary Warren.

Boden arrived from Halifax Town last summer and was one of the most successful signings made by former manager – and ex-Inverness boss – Terry Butcher.

He struck 15 times in all competitions and scored the goal against Barnet that put the Exiles in the third round of the FA Cup for the first time in 30 years.

Boden’s form may have dipped along with that of the team towards the end of the campaign but it didn’t stop him from earning a move to the Scottish Premiership.

Boden said: “I’m happy to have got everything over the line and I’m now buzzing to get going.”

“I’ve had a bit of a look around Inverness and it’s lovely. You only have to speak to a few people as well to realise the people match the place. I look forward to living and playing here.”

Caley boss Richie Foran said: “Scott will be a great addition to the squad. He plays in a position which we were keen to fill and he’ll fit right in here both as a player and with his personality.”

Earlier this week County saw Andrew Hughes turn down a new deal to sign for Peterborough but this summer they have added Scot Bennett, Mark Randall and Joss Labadie to their squad while Darren Jones has extended his contract.

Mark Byrne, Alex Rodman, Danny Holmes, John Christophe-Ayina and Medy Elito were also offered new deals.