I'LL PROVE MYSELF: MACCA

By Mel Booth, Huddersfield Daily Examiner, June 8^th 2007

John McAliskey will lead the Mansfield attack next season confident he can forge a successful career in League football.

The 22-year-old striker - released by Town at the end of last season - has agreed a one-year deal at Field Mill and will sign when he returns from holiday in Egypt.

It's a fresh start for the Republic of Ireland Under 21 cap from Golcar, who was limited to just eight appearances at the Galpharm last season (in addition to a loan spell at Wrexham), and he's keen to make the most of it.

"When I talked to Billy Dearden, the manager, he said I would be a first-choice striker and that's what I want, a run of games at League level," said Macca.

"I didn't want anything more than a one-year deal because I don't want to get into any sort of zone where I can take my foot off the gas.

"I want to prove to everyone that given games in the first team I can move my career forward and now I've got that chance, so it's up to me."

McAliskey, who had seven Town goals from 16 starts and 31 substitute appearances, added: "I was upset when I was released because I've been playing with some of the lads since I was nine and I've always enjoyed playing for Town.

"Realistically, though, my career had come to a bit of a standstill, so this break will allow me to broaden my horizons in another young team and hopefully it will go well.

"I'm moving down to Mansfield to live, which should also do me good, and I'm really looking forward to getting involved. It's a good set-up and I can't want to get playing."