Singleton happy to be the utility man to bolster Glenavon cause

GLENAVON’S Mr Versatile James Singleton is relishing his new role in the heart of the Lurgan Blues defence.

The 22-year-old performed centre-back duties against Linfield in a 2-0 win at Windsor Park in the Premiership on Tuesday night and now he’s hoping to slam the brakes on Loughgall in the Irish Cup — if the snow can be cleared off the Mourneview Park surface in time.

Glenavon have asked volunteers to come along to the Lurgan venue from 8.30am to help the playing surface pass an early inspection.

If the quarter-final tie goes ahead, striker Stephen Murray won’t feature as he’s at a family wedding and Andy Hall may be rested as he’s nursing a hamstring injury.

“I’ve been centre-back for the last three games and I guess it is good to have that versatility because injuries and suspensions will happen,” said Singleton.

“I thought Gary (Hamilton) might play Rhys Marshall at centre-back against Linfield but he kept me in there and it’s certainly a role I enjoy. I haven’t played there much in my career but through other players not being available a door has opened for me there and I’ll do my best for the team.

“The boys are in great form and it was a big win over Linfield in midweek as it moved us six points ahead of the Blues.

“We will certainly not underestimate Loughgall. They enjoyed a superb victory over Ards in the last round and they will take us on full of confidence. We will show them the respect they deserve and there’s no doubt we will need to be up for the fight.”