Josh MacDonald knew the clock was ticking on his A-League career.
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The 22-year-old had spent two and a half years out of a professional environment and was faced with the harsh reality of giving up on his dream when the Central Coast Mariner came knocking.
“It sort of hit me,” MacDonald says.
“When I got the opportunity to go up and trial with the Mariners, I went in saying ‘this is it’. I either had to do it now or go out and get a real job.
“Having that in the back of my mind has made me push myself even harder. I think I have done quite well to this point and I can only get better.”
MacDonald officially penned a one-year deal with the Mariners alongside fellow former Wollongong Wolves striker Jordan Murray in September.
The talented attacker is no stranger to life in the A-League.
He has spent time with both the Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers during his youth career, which all featured a stint in the UK at Nottingham Forest in 2014-15.
Despite his past resume, the Unanderra Hearts junior admits life at the Mariners has differed from his previous experiences.
“For me it was like starting pre-school again,” he said.
“I had to mentally prepare for and get back to training every day, sometimes double sessions, where as here it was just a night.
“I have enjoyed every bit of it. I can feel myself getting better and stronger, not just physically but mentally.”
MacDonald was a regular feature on the scoresheet throughout the Mariners’ pre-season and hopes to continue in the same vein when the A-League campaign begins this weekend.
“I want to be able to bring the best version of me out and hopefully fulfill the potential that I have,” he said.
“I know what I can do and under the coaching staff that we have with Mike [Mulvey], Nick [Montgomery] and Ray [Junna]. It is the best opportunity for me to be at this club right now. I am in a really good position and hope it carries on throughout the season.”
MacDonald has been named as part of the Mariners extended round one squad to face Brisbane Roar on Sunday afternoon.