BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
CONNOR McMANUS insists a glowing reference from fellow Celtic prospect Joe Thomson sold him on a switch to Queen of the South.
The 21-year-old has joined Doonhamers on loan until the end of the season and was pitched immediately into action on Saturday, impressing during a 20-minute cameo in a 1-1 draw against Raith Rovers.
McManus is adamant he did not think twice about the move after speaking to Thomson, who has bagged four in 11 outings since arriving on loan from the Glasgow giants in January.
Indeed, Thomson’s form was enough to land a Scotland under-21 call-up, with the winger making his debut at that level against Estonia on Tuesday evening.
And McManus is desperate to make a similarly fine impact.
He told qosfc.com: “Joe was a big influence and, even before I knew there was a chance to come here, he said great things about the manager (Gary Naysmith), the staff and the players.
“Even from the training I’ve been involved with so far, you can really see the quality.
“It was a busy few days but I’m really looking forward to getting with the boys and the games ahead.
“As soon as a I got the call it was an easy decision and I just wanted to get it done as quickly as possible.
“I joined on Friday so had only just learned the boys’ names by Saturday! But getting on the pitch gives you a better understanding and that is only going to improve.
“Hopefully I can work my way into the team and keep my place.”
