Ervin has been down this road before, waiting his chance
BALLYMENA United captain Jim Ervin says he’s playing a patient game during the Sky Blues’ impressive form.
The Linfield legend hasn’t played for David Jeffrey’s side since the 2-0 defeat at Larne at the end of October.
Tiernan Lynch’s side will again be the opponents at Inver Park this afternoon. The Braidmen are fourth in the table, with aspirations of breaking into the top three, and the mood music is a lot better following last season’s struggles. Defensively, United have conceded as many goals as champions Linfield in the league and Ervin accepts the manager will not make too many changes if the formula is a winning one.
While goalkeeper Ross Glendinning asked to leave the club to secure regular football elsewhere, the man who won six titles at the Blues is awaiting his chance to regain his place in the starting line-up.
“Davy picks the team and results are good, so I have to be patient and take an opportunity when it comes,” said Ervin.
“I’ve always had the attitude of being ready to play and competitive in terms of getting into the team. You need to be patient, bide your time and take your chance. Unfortunately, there haven’t been reserve games to keep up match sharpness.
“I’ve went longer spells in my career when I haven’t played. It happened at Linfield and I’m experienced enough to know it’s a long season and everyone will play their part. There hasn’t been a lot of football played and I understand Davy picks the team and you’re in or not. You might be disappointed or a little frustrated, but you must respect the manager’s decision and be ready when your chance comes. You have to grab that opportunity with both hands if you want to play.”
While elite sport continues, the Covid-19 pandemic has been so devastating that any sense of normality in football or outside it feels a long way away.
“You have to be optimistic about the season but it’s disappointing to be playing behind closed doors. It doesn’t feel right,” Ervin acknowledged.