McKenna hoping to leave a lasting impression
DAN MCKENNA may be an unknown prospect in the League of Ireland at the moment but he’s hoping to leave a lasting impression in his six months at the Carlisle Grounds.
The 18-year-old has signed for Bray Wanderers on from Championship leaders Wolves in a bid to get more competitive football under his belt.
McKenna captain the DDSL to Kennedy Cup glory in 2013 and has donned the captain’s armband for many Ireland underagr sides. Now he’s hoping to be able to influence matters at the Co. Wicklow club.
It was at the Kennedy Cup where McKenna first met Bray coach Graham Kelly, whilst he’d also be familiar with Calvin Rogers but the rest of his team-mates - and the league - will be a new experience for the man comfortable in midfield or right-back.
“I play midfield for Wolves and right back for Ireland 19s. My preference would be midfield as I play/train there every day with Wolves and that’s the position I’d be more familiar with and have a better understanding of. But I don’t mind playing fullback if needs be.
“I’ve been looking to get this loan move since October/Novem- ber. I had mentioned it to Wolves and my coaches said they would look at it come January time and thankfully they’ve allowed it to go ahead as they think it’s what I need to develop to the next stage.”
McKenna knows there’ll be a massive difference between the glitz of playing in the academy squads and togging out on a Friday night in Oriel Park and he’s relishing the step-up.
“I’m sure the league is a lot more physical than the 18s league in England. In England, the aim is to develop young lads and then worry about the result after. In the LOI the three points come first and that is something I want to experi- ence, everyone giving their all to get the three points for the team.
“I’ve a good understanding of the game and even though I’m still young I’d like to think I can help the lads on and off the pitch.
“I’m sure it will bring me on as a player and help me develop my game. I’ll be facing some different challenges in the league which I’m looking forward to.
“I want to do as well as I can for Bray, I’ve heard little bits of what went on last year and I’m hoping we can do a lot better than how we finished.
“I’m hoping to have scored my first senior goal and hopefully if I do well, get a consistent run of games in the team.”