‘Special’ for Whits to play part
MACCLESFIELD Town midfielder Danny Whitaker has reflected on his incredible career that is set to take him back into the Football League.
The 37-year-old has been a professional since 2001, and he is delighted to be part of the Macclesfield side that have been extremely successful this season.
“I’ve really enjoyed my football this season. When I came back five years ago, I always knew the gaffer would be able to put a team together that was able to challenge. I just didn’t know how long it would take. Luckily, I’m able to play a part in it – it’s really special,” Whitaker said.
“We only had four players signed up during pre-season that were with us last season so it was a complete rebuild of the squad.
“When you do that, people start to worry because it can go one way or the other. For us, it’s gone extremely well which nobody could have predicted really. Putting together a squad isn’t easy, especially on the budget the gaffer has had but he’s pulled a few strings and luckily it’s gone really well. Anything can happen in football.
“The lads have produced at very important times.
“We’ve gone into every single game believing we can win it. We went into the away games at Aldershot and Tranmere in February with the same focus and got two fantastic results. I think they were a big turning point – people didn’t think we’d get much out of those and we’ve kicked on since then.”
Whitaker also he hasn’t done anything in particular to ensure he could play for so long.
“I have no secret to my longevity unfortunately. I just look after myself off the pitch and eat the right things. One of the most important things is my love of the game - I live for it,” he said. “Injurywise, I’ve been really fortunate.
“I’d like to think my fitness is still up there so to test myself in the Football League again would be fantastic. Barring any injuries, I’d say another couple of seasons at least is realistic.”