BY the time Gary Mackay-Steven’s time at Celtic was coming to an end he looked as if the simple task of controlling a football was beyond him.
The talent remained. His confidence had long since gone. And wingers, more than any other player, need to feel good about themselves or there is little point of them being in the team.
Mackay-Steven has found himself a good home at Aberdeen. It took him a while to properly settle at Pittodrie but this season we are seeing the best from the 28-year-old. why? Because he believes in himself once again.
He’s scoring goals, beating players, producing step-overs, flicks and tricks, unthinkable 18 months ago, and all of this has brought him into the Scotland squad.
“I feel great at Aberdeen and enjoy the responsibility of being a player to create and score goals,” said Mackay-Steven. “I feel comfortable and I’m just enjoying my football I’m looking to impress for Scotland this week.
“Playing every week is key, you build confidence and get into a rhythm. You feel better with everything.”
A defender misses a tackle and a few sighs will be heard. A winger fails in a dribble and derision comes his way. And then when it happens a second, third, fourth time...
Mackay-Steven’s job is to entertainingly help his team win games, far from easy task, but one he has been doing all season. He won’t start against Albania but could be a hugely important substitute if the game needs changing.
“I think all wingers maybe at one point or another get labelled that (inconsistent),” said Mackay-Steven. “Certainly, I try things, tricks and stuff like that, and it doesn’t always come off But, ultimately you want to be trying things, to create situations, so I don’t think I’ll ever change my game.
“Obviously, I’ve added different things to my game over the years. At Aberdeen there’s also an emphasis on defensive stuff, working hard for the team. Derek McInnes has brought that side into my game and I’m thankful for that.”
The Thurso boy is sure to be given backing in Albania, his hometown is strong Tartan Army territory, and he’s looking forward to representing the Highlands on Saturday night.
“I’m feeling good, scoring goals, so it’s obviously a great opportunity for me coming here,” he said. “I’m really happy to be part of the squad. There’s always pressure, but it’s how you deal with it and take it in.
“There are really good players here – but you’ve got to have faith in your own ability. I’m thankful to get another opportunity.
“There are a lot of Scotland fans where I’m from and they go to the games. There’s a bus that goes to all the home games. Quite possibly there will be a few guys going who went to the pub I once worked in.”
And back to his domestic life, his contract is up in the summer. It’s rather handy that’s he’s found his best summer.
“I haven’t really thought it,” he said, a line used by all footballers. “I’m sure there will be a time when I sit down with the manager and talk. It’s not happened yet but I’m certain it will happen in the future.”
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