Cliftonville boss Paddy McLaughlin says Conor McDermott will once again prove himself one of the Irish League's “top talents” as the 24-year-old prepares to make a shock return to action in the New Year.
McDermott, who hasn’t featured for the Reds in almost a year, was spotted training before Tuesday night’s League Cup win over Portadown at Shamrock Park.
The former Derry City right back, who picked up a groin injury in January, didn’t feature in the matchday panel, but it was a welcome sight as he inches closer to first team duty.
“Conor was back training (on Monday) and travelled to Portadown on Tuesday just to get back on the pitch and let the fans know he’s back in contention,” said McLaughlin.
“It’s great to see one of the top young talents back on the pitch with his boots on again and we’re delighted to have him back.
“He’s had his injury problems and had his personal problems but had the boys behind him right throughout his journey over the last couple of months.
“It’s just a matter of getting his match fitness up again. When we get that we’ve got one of the best talents in the division, so it’s great to see him back.”
While McLaughlin rates McDermott highly, the mobile defender knows he’ll have to earn his first team place when he makes his long awaited return.
“Conor is one of the top talents in his position north and south, but he knows he’s got a fight to get back in the team," said McLaughlin.
“The players who have played in his position since he’s been missing have been phenomenal for us.
“Kris Lowe, Seanna (Foster), Chris Curran have all rotated that position and never once let us down.”
While Cliftonville, who lie five points clear at the summit, will be favourites to pick up a win at basement battlers Warrenpoint Town on Saturday afternoon, McLaughlin is taking nothing for granted.
“We know what this league is like and it will be another tough game,” he said. “They’re all physical battles and they’re all good sides that bring their own challenges.”
