Interview on 14/11/08 conducted by Darren Archer.

Picture: www.presseye.com

How did you first get started in football?

"I had an interest in the game from a very early age, going to all the local soccer schools and playing for my primary school. Kenny Shiels brought me to Ballymena when I started secondary school and I have been here ever since."

Obviously your Dad is a legend within the local game, would you say he had an influence on you taking up football and the position you currently play in?

"He has definitely had a big influence on my career but he never encouraged me to play football, I just always wanted to! We are constantly talking about different aspects of the game and we are both very opinionated. He started out as a midfielder and eventually moved his way to the back whereas I have nearly always been a defender. However, some people have said that there are similarities in our styles."

What is your earliest footballing memory?

"I remember scoring two goals on my debut for my primary school. How times change! My first game for Ballymena in the Lisburn League was disastrous as we lost 7-1."

What do you think of the new regime at Ballymena United and do you think we can finally get the 20 year monkey off our backs and win a major trophy?

"I have enjoyed playing under Roy Walker. He gave me my debut and has placed a lot of faith in me even though the team has been struggling. There is no reason why we cannot win a cup competition in the near future. The club has gone far too long without a trophy and I know how much it would mean to the fans if we finally won something."

You were a member of the highly successful reserve team who won the Reserve League in 2006/07. What are your memories from that season and what did it mean to you?

"I broke into the team in the final few months of the season and it was a fantastic team to be a part of. I think we did so well because we had a great team spirit and as the results got better and better, we grew in confidence and ended up hammering a lot of teams. It meant a lot to win the title because claiming silverware is proof that all the hard work paid off."

You have broken your way into the first team squad this season, what are your hopes and expectations for this season?

"I just hope to play consistently well and make myself a regular in the team. Hopefully the results will start to go our way too. We have proved that we can beat the best teams in the league but that is not good enough unless we prove we can do it on a consistent basis."

We know you are an avid football fan, what other team(s) do you support?

"I am a massive Liverpool fan. My Dad would have it no other way! "

Have you any superstitions or rituals before you play?

"I am not superstitious but I always try to ensure that my preparation is as good as it can be. I eat and drink the right things and get as much rest as I can."

What is your favourite song?

"You’ll Never Walk Alone."

How do you like to relax away from football?

"By playing Football Manager or Pro Evo! That can be quite stressful though! I watch a lot of sport on the TV and play cricket and tennis in the summer months."

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

"The best place I have been on holiday is Salou. I went there a couple of times with my family when I was younger."

Are you married or attached?

"I am currently single."

If I had one wish it would be…

"To play for Liverpool in the Champions League final and score the winner via a Rio Ferdinand deflection."