| Player Profile | |||||||||||||||||||
|
 Michael Spillane |
||||||||||||||||||
|
To say that in the last twelve months or so Michael has made a bit of a name for himself is something of an understatement. First of all he became a regular in David Williams' side in the second half of last season, and this some months before he left school and then he joined The Academy as a scholar in July. Before that however and following his performances for the Under-18's he was picked to represent his country, the Republic Of Ireland, at Under-16 level and so well did he perform that he was invited back, but this time to play a year above his age group for the Under-17's. The icing on the cake he was when he was asked to captain the Irish side in a game against Sweden, and if all that wasn't enough Michael joined Nigel Worthington's first team squad for the trips to Luton and QPR this season. None of this it seems has surprised Academy Manager Ricky Martin. "Michael has adapted very well to becoming a scholar at the club, this has come about after his involvement with the Under-18's for the second half of last season", said Ricky. "His progression into the Reserves at just sixteen has not surprised me and his determination and talent has now taken him to within touching distance of the first team. I believe if he continues to show the same determination that has served him so well up until now he has a bright future in the game". Most fans will know that Michael plays both for the Under-18's and his country as a central defender, however that was not the case whilst playing for David Williams last season when he was deployed more often than not in central midfield. Now, while David is the first to admit Michael gives his best in the centre of defence, there is certainly no harm to having another string to your bow. Q+A with Michael Spillane 1. Which team did you support as a boy and who was your boyhood hero? West Ham and Pablo De Canio 2. What has been the highlight of your career to date? Travelling with the first team squad to Luton and QPR, and being captain of the Republic Under-17 side that played against Sweden 3. Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date? My mum Maxine and my uncle Terry 4. What are your hopes for the 2005-06 season? To make a first team appearance or even just make the bench 5. Away from football how do you like to spend your time? Talking on the phone to my family and friends and getting home to see my family when it is possible 6. If you had not become an Academy Scholar what do you imagine you would now be doing? I have always thought that I will play football and so I have never given too much thought as to what else I might be doing |
|||||||||||||||||||