Words: Steve Pitman & Michael Flynn
Image: Tony Dadsen/Brisbane Strikers FC

Attacking outlet Josh McVey is looking to secure a regular place in the Brisbane Strikers starting formation in 2015 after re-signing with the club.

McVey stepped up to replace the injured Matt Thurtell in his first season at Strikers in 2013, however a season-ending knee injury in a friendly against Brisbane Roar hindered his progress.

Now, with Thurtell departed for PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria club Bentleigh Greens and McVey back to fitness, the 23-year-old says he is motivated to make every post a winner in 2015.

“Having not seen a lot of game time due things that are out of my control, it’s something that you would never wish upon anybody but it in a way it becomes a motivating factor,” said McVey.

“It serves to put things into perspective.  Having been out for that sort of period you come back and you don’t take anything for granted. You work hard and you see far more positives than you do negatives.”

It’s a real motivator and a real eye opener to have that time off, having come through the ranks relatively injury-free. It builds your appreciation and love for the game.”

Despite the absence left by Thurtell, and McVey netting 9 goals for Strikers in 14 starts and a further six appearances off the bench over the past two seasons, he said he will content playing wherever coach Kevin A’herne-Evans picks him.

“Obviously, losing someone like ‘Turtle’ you can’t look around and say ‘well, we’ve got a back-up here’ because Turtle’s proven track record speaks for itself,” McVey said.

“From my perspective I’m happy to basically serve the team in any capacity. I know my qualities and I think what I’ve been able to do so far at the club in my relatively short playing time is show my versatility where necessary,” he concluded.