Lee eager to make most of his chance

KIERAN LEE . . . .six-months wait for his breakthrough.

KIERAN LEE has admitted his relief at breaking into Athletic’s first team after six months of frustration.

When the 20-year-old was captured from Manchester United in the summer, he could hardly have envisaged having to wait so long for his full debut.

But after making his first starts for the club against Crewe and Carlisle over Christmas, the Stalybridge-based player is delighted to be up and running.

Lee, who was plagued by a hamstring injury picked up during pre-season, said: "I have been waiting for this moment for a long time.

"Things started badly for me when I was injured pre-season and then I was hurt again as soon as I returned.

"And when I got over that one, the team was winning so I have had to wait for my chance.

“Now I have been given one, I am hoping I will get more.

"Obviously it was frustrating to be injured, but the lads have been playing well and I didn't deserve to get my chance straight away.

"We have been doing well recently, but I think the manager wanted to freshen things up.

"He has said all along it is a squad game and everybody would be given a chance, and I have had mine in the last two games."

Lee operated on the right side of midfield in both his matches, though he admitted he favours a central midfield role.

"I am just happy to be playing whatever position the manager wants me to fill.

“I played in both full-back positions and in nearly every other position when I was at United," he added.

Athletic manager John Sheridan was delighted with the impact and contribution made by Lee.

He said: "I thought Kieran did excellently. We know he is a cute and very intelligent footballer, having come from Manchester United.

"You could see his awareness and touch was very good. It is a totally different game playing with Oldham than Manchester United.

"He has to get used to this league and the way we play, but you can see he is quality on the ball.

"He has played very well in the reserves recently and he was always going to get his chance."

Lee said it has not been difficult settling in at Boundary Park.

"Obviously there is a big difference in the facilities at both clubs, but to be honest I have found it easy as the lads have been great and I have enjoyed the training,” he said.