Winger Josh believes he is finding his feet

me a lot, giving me some gym work to do, so hopefully you’ll see a change in a year or two or maybe before.”

No other player has made more substitute appearances for Halifax this season than Macdonald’s 21, and the midfielder is now aiming to become a regular starter.

“It’s been a rollercoaster really. I’ve been in and out of the team but I just need to keep plugging away,” he said.

“Jim’s said I’ll get chances and he’s put me in twice now from the start.

“I think I’ve done OK but I’m not up to match fitness yet so hopefully I can get a few more starts.

“It’s been frustrating but Jim’s always said I’d get my chance and the lads have been winning so he couldn’t really change a winning team.

“I think I’ve got a bit more consistent under Jim but hopefully I can start lasting a bit longer in games, get my match fitness up and start playing 90 minutes.

“There’s only the under 21s if you’re not starting regularly to get your match fitness in but Jim’s not a big fan of that so I’ve just got to try and stay in the team here and work hard in training.”

Macdonald believes Harvey and assistant manager Tommy Miller, who, like Macdonald, lives in the North East, have been important in helping him improve his game.

“Jim likes me as a player and he’s making me better in training,” Macdonald added.

“He’s been patient with me and given me my chance so hopefully I can repay him eventually.

“Just trying to get me stronger, get me on the ball more. They encourage me to get on the ball as often as I can.

“I travel down with Tommy and obviously he’s played at a high level so he gives me some pointers. I’ve got to take them on board.

“He tells me stories from his career and gives me advice. Hopefully I can push on and have a good career like he did.”