New Brentford B recruit Conor McManus says his experiences in Ireland can serve him well when he formally links up with Neil MacFarlane’s side in the new year.
The 18-year-old signed a pre-contract agreement recently to link up with the side from Bray Wanderers where he was playing first team football.
Having had the chance to test himself against men at the age of 17, the youngster feels he’s been able to develop physically and he’s looking forward to adding to his game in West London.
He explained: “I’m so pleased to be here. It’s a huge opportunity and I think I can really go on and further my football skills here. My coach told me that I had the opportunity to trial and that’s something that every young lad dreams of. When I came over and met the lads it was unbelievable.
“The fact that I’ve had some experience with the physical side of the game and now I can come here and hone my skills technically. That pairing should work well.
“I was playing Under-19 football and with Bray I managed to kick on and play some first team football last season. Over a four or five month stretch I really grew as a player, I learned about the physicality as well as the difference in the speed of the game.”
With a chance to move to London to build on his game the young defender is excited to get started with the Bees and will bring lots of energy to his new club as he sets about an exciting second half of the 2022/23 season.
He continued: “I would describe myself as a tough tackling defender who likes to get up and down the pitch. I’m energetic and willing to do whatever it takes to get the win.
“It’s unbelievable. I’ve been talking to some of the lads about the trips coming up. I’m just a young lad coming from Ireland and now I’m getting the opportunity to play abroad is amazing.”