Interview taken from 'Sky Blue Review'; Ballymena United's match-day programme on 20/08/05 against Newry City. Interview conducted by Paul Irwin.

How did you get started in football? "I started with Larne Youth and joined Crusaders at 15. I also had spells with Wolves, Bolton, Swindon, Yeovil, Lisburn Distillery and Coleraine."

Who have been your influences, both on and off the pitch? "Chris Turner, when I was at Wolves, was a massive influence on me as a player. Off the pitch, my parents but especially my father who has football running through his veins."

What do you think of the squad at BUFC? "The squad Tommy has assembled shows massive potiential, he has brought good players to the club who should make a big difference."

What are your initial thoughts of the manager? "When I was at Bolton, Tommy was still playing for them and both being from Northern Ireland, we built up a good friendship. He is a man I respect a lot so when he called and asked if I was interested in playing for him at Ballymena United I didn't give it a second thought."

What do you think of the setup of the club? "There are few clubs in the Irish League with facilities such as those at Ballymena, and youth development at the club is very well organised and managed. Tommy's close links to youth football should ensure the talent in the reserve and youth teams will get a chance when the time is right."

What do you think could be done to improve Irish League football and its attendances? "I prefer playing football on Saturday afternoons, although if it would increase numbers attending I would be happy to play on a Friday night. Summer football is one possibility I would like to see considered as a way of bringing more people into Irish League grounds."

Which grounds/opponents have impressed you in the Irish League? "Windsor Park always impresses me - as our national stadium it is always in good nick. Glenn Ferguson and Vinny Arkins are both great players, while Rory Hamill has the most ability in the Irish League. I admire Packie McAllister, because he always has the will to win and will stick by his team-mates to the very last kick of the game."

Have you any pre-match rituals or superstitions? "Not really, although I do have a bit of a routine which I like to stick to, starting off with breakfast in mum's house every Saturday!"

What are your ambitions for this season? "My main aim in any season is to play in every game possible and get more goals than the previous season. Naturally I'd love to see Ballymena win a trophy, and personally I'd like to have hit double figures at the end of the season."

Are you married, or otherwise attached? "My girlfriend Mandy and I have been together for two and a half years. We met in Larne when I came back from playing football in England."

How do you like to unwind? "I like to socialise with my girlfriend and mates and I enjoy playing golf (with a handicap of six, he says!)"

Do you support any English football teams? "I tend to follow results for all the teams at which I have played, as do my parents. I don't think you'll see a match this season where my mum and dad won't be in the stands."

What is your favourite holiday destination? "Lanzarote"

Finally, If you were on a desert island; pick three things? "Mandy, plenty of drink and a TV to watch the football and check results."