SLEEPY HEAD JJ CAN’T GET OVER MISS
BY EWING GRAHAME KILMARNOCK winger Jordan won his fourth cap for Northern Ireland in their 0-0 draw with Republic of Ireland nine days ago – and is still haunted by the chance he blew which could have won the match.
He stole the ball from Darragh Lenihan to leave himself with only Darren Randolph to beat but the keeper deflected his effort to safety.
He’s had sleepless nights as a result and resorted to watching compilations of footballing greats missing sitters in order to cheer himself up.
Jones said: “I’m not joking –I didn’t sleep a wink that night. I was just thinking about it. I’d done well when I came on.
“I’d been positive and the gaffer made a point of saying how well I’d done but all everyone thinks about is that one chance.
“I’ve watched it back and I did really well to get the ball. I went through and tried to lift it into the far corner and Darren saved it with his toe. It was a good save but I should have scored.
“So far I’ve watched it back a minimum 500 times – honestly – and I’ve played it back more often than that in my head.
“Then I started watching YouTube videos of the top players missing good chances to try to make me feel better!”
Jones has yet to score for club or country this season and, as he prepares for today’s clash at St Johnstone, he concedes he needs to start hitting the net if he’s going to reach the top and has vowed to become more like Celtic’s James Forrest.
He said: “Nowadays when you are a winger you are classed as an attacker and you have to add goals to your game. It’s something I’m trying to work on.
“Look at James. He’s on fire, he’s a very good player and it’s good to see him doing it for Scotland as well. I’m looking to chip in with more. I can bring goals to my game.”