McDonald’s loving it

Conor McDonald has enjoyed an eye-catching first month at Solitude – but would love to kick February off by helping Cliftonville make Tennent’s Irish Cup progress tomorrow.

The 22-year-old midfielder made a few cameo appearances from the bench ahead of impressing on his first start in last Monday’s Danske Bank Premiership draw with Glenavon and reveals he’s loving every minute of life with the Reds.

“It’s been enjoyable so far,” he says.

“I was out of competitive football for a couple of months so it was all about trying to get back fit. I was getting 20 minutes here and there but I’ve enjoyed it so far. It’s a great Club and a professional Club – it’s a nice atmosphere to be training, working and playing in.”

The former Dundalk and Warrenpoint Town starlet might be a Cliftonville newcomer but is well aware of Reds’ recent record against Crusaders and, ahead of this weekend’s North Belfast Derby showdown, adds: “We have to beat them at some time and what better time to beat them than in the Cup in front of our own fans?”

You can read the full McDonald interview in tomorrow’s edition of our Matchday Magazine, which will be on sale at Solitude for £2.50.

Alongside boss Barry Gray’s pre-game views, The Red Eye’s 20th issue of he season reflects on the visitors’ pursuit of silverware, provides your latest player poster and steps 124, 39 and 11 years back down memory lane – plus plenty more besides.

Our Matchday Magazine has attained a top-three position in the NI Football Programme Collectors’ annual awards poll for the last six seasons so, if you’re not a regular reader, why not take a look at what you’ve been missing out on?

Admission
Adult: £11
Concessions: £7

Cliftonville Members Tickets, Season Tickets and Family Tickets are not valid for this fixture.

Sean Graham’s Irish Cup preview