Defender desperate to be included for JPT encounter at Meadow Lane…
Alan Sheehan is itching to get back onto the pitch, after sitting out the majority of the last month.
Sheehan was withdrawn from the early September encounter with Shrewsbury Town due to a hamstring injury and was then sent off for a deliberate handball following his return against Stevenage.
The left-back, who has made 51 starts and only one substitute appearance since arriving at Meadow Lane last summer, found it difficult watching on from the bench on Saturday, when the Magpies thumped Carlisle United 4-0 at Brunton Park.
Sheehan hopes to be included for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy meeting with Sheffield United this evening so that he can attempt to win back his place in the side.
“I missed the game Saturday because I was on the bench and that was my first game back, so I’d like to be in as soon as possible but that’s up to the manager,” he told Magpie Player.
“I think, aside from the Stevenage game, it was my first time on the bench, it’s only two times I’ve been on the bench in over 50 games.
“I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t difficult, because you see all the boys out there on the pitch and you want to be helping them out.
“You keep doing your part on the bench and working hard in training and then you hope to get your chance as soon as possible.”
He added: “I’ve been working hard on my fitness whilst I’ve been out and I’m raring to go.
“I’m champing at the bit and ready to go whenever I’m needed.”
Looking ahead to this evening’s Round Two fixture, Sheehan is expecting another battle with the Blades but has every faith that the Magpies can reach Round Three.
“It’ll be a difficult game, they’re a big club, probably one of the biggest clubs in our division,” he continued.
“I think it’s fair to say they’ve got a terrific manager, who I was lucky enough to play under when I was at Swindon.
“I know exactly what he’s all about and he’s not going to take any game lightly, so they’re going to come here to turn us over, no doubt.
“I think we’ve got to concentrate on our own stuff and we’ll hopefully get a result.”
Ahead of tonight’s 7.45pm kick-off, you can watch the Poland V England match in the Meadow Lane Sports Bar. For full details, click here.
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