Winger Niall McGinn is confident he can impress the Celtic manager, whoever that may be, next season and push his way into the starting XI on a regular basis.
The Tyrone man started six league games this season and appeared in 17 games in total, scoring two goals. He is enjoying life in Glasgow but feels the 2010/2011 season is his chance to push on.
“We have to be back on July 1st and hopefully by then we will know who the manager is, who our new signings are and which players have gone,” said the former Derry City player last night.
“I pushed in to the team last season and made a name for myself so my main aim next season is to hold down a place and play week-in, week-out.
“I think I have gained enough experience last year to do that. I have a lot to improve upon but I played in Europe and scored a few goals.
“It’s just a waiting game for the players just now to see whether Lenny keeps the job or not.
“He has served the club well, he has enough passion for it and he could do a great job if he got the opportunity to be the manager next season.
“He seems to be keen on me but if he stays I will need to keep impressing him.
“However, if there is a change of manager, it would be nice if he knows a bit about me and is also keen on me.
“But when any new manager comes in you have to impress them as soon as they come in and hopefully I will get the chance to do that, whether it is in games or in training.”
McGinn, however, is not solely focused on football, as he revealed at the opening of his new restaurant in Belfast. It seems the Donaghmore is looking a lot further ahead than next season.
The 22-year-old was joined by several members of the Hoops’ first team for the official unveiling of ‘Failte’ and was keen to point out he is determined not to become the archetypal frivolous footballer.
“Gerry Carlile, my agent, came to me with the idea a few months ago but I never paid much attention at first,” he said.
“He felt the Falls Road in Belfast needed a good restaurant so hopefully it does well and benefits me in the long run.
“It’s sort of growing up. My life has changed over the last couple of years.
“You read in the papers about young players going out and spending money ridiculously but I won’t be like that.
“It is always good to enjoy yourself and reward yourself but it is always very important to invest it.
“It’s about your background and where you come from,” added McGinn. “I didn’t think I would get the chance to become a professional footballer but I jumped at the opportunity.
“I have grown up having respect for money and now that I am making good money, I will keep an eye on things.”