Motherwell boss Stephen Robinson is ignoring Ross County's lower league status ahead of the William Hill Scottish Cup tie at Fir Park on Saturday.

The Staggies are in the tier below their Premiership hosts but the Northern Irishman noted that they are three points clear of Ayr United at the top of the Ladbrokes Championship.

It is that form which makes Robinson treat the Highland club, relegated from the top flight last season, as an equal in their fourth-round clash, where the Steelmen's manager has new signings Ross McCormack and Gboly Ariyibi available.

Robinson, back in the dugout after a three-match ban, said: "I feel we are playing a Premiership side.

"Ross County have maintained a lot of their players.

"Credit to Roy McGregor (chairman) up there and the coaching staff, they have been able to retain a Premiership team, that is shown by where they sit in the league as well.

"They are top of the league and doing very well and they will get promoted

"I think it is a tough game for us, make no mistake.

"We have changed a few things, brought in a few players who give us different options and I find it quite exciting.

"I am going into the game with high hopes tomorrow.

"We know Ross County will be a tough task but it is about us, how we start the game, how we take the game to them."

Robinson is glad to be back in the dugout after being given a five-game touchline ban  – two suspended – after criticising the officials during his side's 7-1 defeat by Rangers.

He said: "I have had enough from watching from the stands.

"The passion of the game does take over and I can't help that.

"I am passionate about Motherwell, passionate about winning football matches and sometimes that goes into an area it probably shouldn't.

"I have taken my punishment, held my hands up and now I get on with it."