Mott point

Conor McDermott is looking forward to returning to the European stage after a forgettable experience with Derry City last summer.

The 21-year-old full-back, who is on loan at Cliftonville from the Candystripes, was sent off when City were beaten 2-0 by Dinamo Minsk in the First Qualifying Round of the Europa League and, ahead of Tuesday’s Preliminary Round draw, says he’s motivated to perform in every competition.

“My first European game didn’t go too well but, in fairness to the boys, they actually went and won the second leg out in Minsk,” he recalls.

“It would be good to be involved this year but the main thing for me is to do as well as I can for the whole time I’m at Cliftonville.

“It’s been frustrating coming back from injury but when I heard that Paddy McLaughlin wanted to sign me, I knew it was a big opportunity and one that I wanted to take. Hopefully I can do well enough to play regularly and get back to my best form.

“I know I’m only here on loan but doing the best I can for Cliftonville is the main focus for me now.”