St Johnstone youngster McClean is aiming high at McDiarmid Park

YOUNG midfield man Kyle McClean is in his third year with St Johnstone and aiming to make progress.

McClean, a Northern Ireland U/21 international, has already made topteam appearances and is aiming to show he has what it takes to become a major player for the McDiarmid Park men.

“I really am looking to push on,” he said.

“I am pleased so far with the way things have gone.

“I had a spell on loan last season at Linfield and won league and League Cup winners’ medals with them.

“It was a good experience, one that will stand me in good stead.

“Their boss, f ormer Northern Ireland international player David Healy, really helped me and I was playing more or less every week.”

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has also been a major influence on McClean as he has had him training with t he full national squad.

The youngster has also been encouraged by Saints manager Tommy Wright who has given him topteam opportunities.

“My aim is to not only progress with Saints but also with Northern Ireland. I am still eligible for their U/21s.”

The Irish U/21s have five games coming up, at home to Malta and Romania and away to Romania, Finland and Denmark.

Some more bright young men of Saints are in action at McDiarmid Park tomorrow night.

The young Saints will face off against a Manchester United Academy side featuring U/16 and U/18 players. Admission will be by way of donations to the Saints Youth Academy.

“Our visitors will field a strong team,” said Saints’ youth supremo Alistair Stevenson.

Kyle McClean is hoping to push on at St Johnstone.