Get to know our latest recruit: forward and Foxtel National Youth League Player, Josh Macdonald.
1. Overseas experience
Before joining the Red & Black, Macdonald spent a number of years overseas.
At the age of 16, he was with Tottenham Hotspur for a short stint before returning home and taking up a place in the Sydney FC youth set-up.
Within a year, Macdonald jetted back to the UK to play for Nottingham Forest.
With things at Forest not turning out the way he would have liked, Macdonald returned to Australia once more to re-ignite his passion for football.
2. He made his official debut in the FFA Cup
After some standout performances in the Wanderers’ pre-season matches against Mt Druitt Town Rangers and Central Coast Mariners, Macdonald earned a spot on the bench for the FFA Cup match against Brisbane Roar.
He entered the field as a substitute for lone goal-scorer Golgol Mebrahtu and made quite the impact, drawing a number of fouls and winning a penalty.
“I was on there for about 15 to 20 minutes and the crowd were unreal. I’ve never experienced anything like that.
“The RBB… you couldn’t hear anything on the pitch… they were just so loud. It was an unreal experience – with hopefully more to come.”
3. Camaraderie
One thing that has impressed Macdonald in his short time with the club is the togetherness and camaraderie of the playing group.
“No one puts each other down.
“Experienced players like Mark Bridge and Scott Jamieson give you advice on how to improve your game.
“All the boys have been excellent and I’ve been really enjoying my time. They’ve been making me feel really comfortable.”
4. Ian Crook
Ian Crook, Technical Director of the Wanderers Academy, first introduced Macdonald to the Wanderers.
“I know Ian Crook well from my NSWIS days. He invited me to come and train with the squad and one thing led to another.
“I’m very happy to be here.”
5. Goals
Macdonald is a member of the youth team this season and his main goals are to get fit and try to establish himself in the first team.
“It will be a long process but I’m going to put the work in and if I get an opportunity, I’ll take it.”
Watch the full interview with Josh Macdonald here.