Latics star eyeing future media role

FORWARD THINKING: striker Charlie MacDonald (left), in action against Crewe on Saturday, is already planning the next chapter of his working life.

HE MIGHT look long in the tooth for it, but Charlie MacDonald becomes a ‘fresher’ next week.

The Athletic striker (32) will start a degree course in professional sports writing and broadcasting at Staffordshire University on Wednesday.

Tutor Lawrie Madden, the former Sheffield Wednesday defender, runs the course: another star pupil this year will be Fabrice Muamba.

MacDonald follows in the footsteps of former Athletic defender Tony Carss — who spent time as part of his course here at the Chronicle.

The move is a result of MacDonald’s previous experiences behind the microphone.

He won’t be hanging up his boots any time soon, but sees the degree as groundwork for a post-playing career.

“I want to stay in the game and it is the right time now to look at options,“ MacDonald said.

“I really enjoy the media side of things. When I have been injured at other clubs I have often done radio work and commentary and I’ve really enjoyed it.

“The course fits in well with my football so it won’t interfere. And with Manchester being one of the big media hubs in the country I am in a prime location. Hopefully it will open up a few doors for me when I finish playing.

“I have still got a good few years left playing, though. I don’t feel 32 years old and as long as my legs keep looking after me, I think I will be all right for a little while yet!”