FC Halifax Town: Winger Josh feels he is finding his feet

The winger has started in Town’s last two games after impressing manager Jim Harvey in training and his cameo appearances from the bench.

Macdonald helped previous club Marske to the Northern League Division One title last season in the ninth tier of English football, which features only amateur sides.

He admits his switch to Halifax was a huge step up but feels he is more comfortable with the challenge of the National League now than when he first arrived.

“It’s a massive difference. It’s faster, stronger - everything about it’s just a totally different speed,” he said.

“It took me quite a few games to get used to it but I know what it’s about now.

“A lot of it is about the physical side but I’ve been trying to work on that, although it’s hard when you’re only part-time.

“But Ben (Nicholson, fitness coach) has been helping me a lot, giving me some gym work to do, so hopefully you’ll see a change in a year or two or maybe before.”

No other player has made more substitute appearances for Halifax this season than Macdonald’s 21, and the midfielder is now aiming to establish himself as a regular starter.

“It’s been a rollercoaster really. I’ve been in and out of the team but I just need to keep plugging away,” he said.

“Jim’s said I’ll get chances and he’s put me in twice now from the start.

“I think I’ve done OK but I’m not up to match fitness yet so hopefully I can get a few more starts.

“It’s been frustrating but Jim’s always said I’d get my chance and the lads have been winning so he couldn’t really change a winning team.

“I’ve got my chance now so hopefully I can stay in and get a few more games.

“I think I’ve got a bit more consistent under Jim but hopefully I can start lasting a bit longer in games, get my match fitness up and start playing 90 minutes.

“There’s only the under 21s if you’re not starting regularly to get your match fitness in but Jim’s not a big fan of that so I’ve just got to try and stay in the team here and work hard in training.”

Macdonald believes Harvey and assistant manager Tommy Miller, who, like Macdonald, lives in the North East, have been important in helping him improve his game.

“Jim likes me as a player and he’s making me better in training,” Macdonald added.

“He’s been patient with me and given me my chance so hopefully I can repay him eventually.

“Just trying to get me stronger, get me on the ball more. They encourage me to get on the ball as often as I can.

“I travel down with Tommy and obviously he’s played at a high level so he gives me some pointers. I’ve got to take them on board.

“He tells me stories from his career and gives me advice. Hopefully I can push on and have a good career like he did.”