I’d relish chance to play at higher level: Magee
Loughgall hotshot ready to step-up if summer move comes about
YOUNG Player of the Year Benji Magee says he’s ready to step up and make the grade if a big move materialises this summer.
The 21-year-old is loving life at Loughgall where he has taken his game to another level and caught the eye of cross-channel scouts.
Magee is one of the League’s brightest young talents tipped to shine in the professional game in England or Scotland should a club make a move for him.
The frontman is waiting to see if an exciting opportunity arises but he remains focused on continuing his development with the Villagers who have given him a platform to showcase his talent.
Hotshot Magee has been watched by several clubs including Wrexham, Bolton, Charlton, Oxford and Hibernian during an impressive breakthrough season for the rising star.
“I always feel confident when I step onto the pitch,” he said. “I always believe I will score and that’s where my mindset needs to be.
“Like other young players, I would relish an opportunity to play at a higher level while also being very respectful to Loughgall where I am really enjoying my football.
“If the opportunity arises it could be something to be excited about. Players like Trai Hume, who went to Sunderland, have left the Irish League and done well. That gives the rest of us hope. The League has a higher profile which helps the young players. Matthew Clarke is going to Livingston and he’s 30.
“I heard that clubs were watching me but I was focused on performing for the team.
“The club has given me a great platform to show what I can do.
“I’m not sure what the future holds. I’m under contract at Loughgall and that’s where my mindset is.
“Any interest will go through the club and I can’t predict the future.
“But many young players are getting moves across the water which is great to see.”
Magee claimed the Young
Player of the Year prize, seeing off competition from Cliftonville’s Shea Kearney and Ethan Mcgee of Linfield.
Magee is also in the running for the Young Player of the Season honour as part of the Castlereagh Glentoran Supporters’ Club Ulster Footballer of the Year awards.
Cliftonville’s Odhran Casey and Linfield’s Mcgee join him on the shortlist.
Magee scored 16 Premiership goals this season, 22 in all competitions, and has earned international recognition with Northern Ireland Under-21s.
Loughgall boss Dean Smith was named Manager of the Year at the end of season Northern
Ireland Football Awards as the newly promoted finished in ninth position.
“I did not expect to win Young Player of the Year but I was delighted,” said Magee who turns 22 next week.
“It was a huge honour. To be honest, what I have achieved has not sunk in. Everything feels like a flash and I’m still coming to terms with what has happened.
“It’s hard to believe. I had mini targets during the season. I aimed for five, then 10, 15 but unfortunately I didn’t make it to 25. I do believe in myself but I probably should have scored more goals. I do feel like I have more to learn. Everyone makes mistakes and I will improve.”