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McPhail at Tallaght Stadium. Bobby Best
new man

'It will take time to gel but they're a hungry bunch' - McPhail

He only arrived at the club this week but the Hoops midfielder has been impressed by his new side.

SHAMROCK ROVERS’ latest signing Stephen McPhail says his new team-mates have made an immediate impression on him.

Former Ireland international McPhail was officially unveiled yesterday after arriving from Sheffield Wednesday earlier in the week and was happy with what he saw in his first training session.

After a disappointing Airtricity League campaign in 2013, Hoops boss Trevor Croly has rung in the changes ahead of next month’s curtain-raiser. And a solid start to their pre-season friendlies was followed up with a 5-1 win over Drogheda United in the Leinster Senior Cup last night.

“It’s probably not going to gel right away,” admits McPhail. “It’s tough because he has changed the whole squad around. I think there are only four or five from last year.

“It’s going to take time but he has got a hungry bunch. I came straight in yesterday (Tuesday) and went training for an hour to see how it was. It’s a great bunch of lads, they trained hard and there was no messing. That’s the way I like to work.”

At 34, McPhail will be one of the most experienced members of the squad and the former Cardiff City midfielder is well aware of the fact that he must look after himself to get through the season in the right condition.

“I’m obviously getting older in football terms so I’ve got to manage myself properly. I mightn’t get to play every game or get through every 90 minutes but I’m sure I’ll be able to be available for nearly every game — whether that means on the bench or starting its up to Trevor. I’m ready to play and looking forward to it.”

“He has got good mix of midfielders and plenty of options and he can play three or three in there. I’m comfortable playing in either so that won’t be a problem. I’ve got to get to know everyone and how they play so I need their help more than anything.”

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