Stags’ newest recruit Alex MacDonald believes the move to One Call Stadium will provide him with a great opportunity to further his career.
The 26-year-old put pen-to-paper on a deal from Oxford United earlier on today after transferring from the Kassam Stadium.
The Burnley academy product says the opportunity to move to a side who are on the rise under boss Steve Evans was one which he couldn’t turn down.
“As soon as I had the chance to come down here and work with Steve [Evans], I thought it was an opportunity for me which was great, and it was one that I had spoken about long and hard with my family about, and we are happy to be here,” MacDonald said.
“I think [when] you look at where the club’s been since Steve has taken over – there is a good group of players here, I know a few of the lads here already. It was a move that I thought was going one place with the recent upturn in form, and it is always great to be a part of it.
“And I am just looking to hopefully add to what I have already got and get the team in the right direction and up the league.”
Furthermore, the ex-Scotland under 21 international praised the immediate impact that several of the Stags’ new signings have had in their ascent up the table, and expressed his aim of adding to that with his own prowess as a winger.
“Obviously it (the new signings) has all been good, because it is being reflected in the performances and certainly the results. I think when he (Steve Evans) took over, the club was 19th in the league. So the results have certainly come.
“Hopefully I can improve the squad, and hopefully that comes off from the results and performance on a Saturday.
“I am a winger. I like to give it everything in every game and hopefully add a little bit of quality as well. I am a hard working wideman, and hopefully I can bring another dimension to the game.”
Finally, MacDonald is fully aware of the competition among the Stags’ ranks, but is not shy of working hard to nail down a starting spot.
“It (joining a club in January) can be tricky at first, but with the games coming in thick and fast – we are straight into a tough game at Barnet away – and the more games you are involved in, the better it is and easier [it is] to settle.
“I’d rather join a club in January than join in the summer because it is a long process, with pre-season and stuff. So I’d rather join in January and I am happy that this has gone over the line.
“I need to get in the team first. That is my aim, to make an impression and get myself in to the starting XI, sooner rather than later.
“The team are on a great run of form at the minute and if I can help in any way, shape or form – straight away from the offing, then it is great.”
“You have got to earn your way in, earn the respect of your team-mates and certainly the manager.”
Supporters can view Alex MacDonald’s first interview as a Stag on Stags PlayerHD.
