If last season was a nightmare for St Mirren's Conor McMenamin, this term has been the stuff of dreams. Knee and Achilles injuries kept the 30-year-old out of action for four months from mid-December and he ended the campaign having made just 11 appearances. McMenamin has surpassed that total already this season, picking up a League Cup winner's medal in the process, and is now targeting a return to international football with Northern Ireland.
If last season was a nightmare for St Mirren's Conor McMenamin, this term has been the stuff of dreams.
Knee and Achilles injuries kept the 30-year-old out of action for four months from mid-December and he ended the campaign having made just 11 appearances.
McMenamin has surpassed that total already this season, picking up a League Cup winner's medal in the process, and is now targeting a return to international football with Northern Ireland.
The Buddies number 10 has been used predominantly at right wing-back lately under manager Stephen Robinson.
"I was obviously a bit naive to the whole position. Gradually I'm getting better at that and that comes with playing games," said McMenamin.
"On the training pitch, the coaches work with me on certain things both in the defensive and attacking side of it.
"So it's all about taking chances because we've got a great squad there and you know if you're not doing well, somebody's there to replace you. It keeps everyone on their toes."
McMenamin started at right wing-back in St Mirren's league wins over Dundee United and Livingston and in the cup final triumph over Celtic.
"When that final whistle went in the cup final, you forget about the injuries and all the hard work you've done to get back as long as the team wins, that's the most important thing," he added.
"My ultimate goal is just to try and stay in the team and hopefully help the team win."
McMenamin also has his heart set on adding to his 14 Northern Ireland caps, especially with a World Cup play-off coming up against Italy in March.
"As soon as the final whistle went last week, I got back to my phone and all the staff at Northern Ireland were congratulating me and wishing the team and everyone all the best," he said.
"I've had a lot of injuries the last couple of years, but the pinnacle for any footballer is to play for their country. And I'm no different.
"I love playing for Northern Ireland. The main goal for me heading into the next few weeks here is to try and cement my seat on that plane for Italy.
"It'll be a really tough match but it's one that I think we can go and win. "
Category: General Sports
