Freddie O'Donoghue - "I just love playing football"

Rising Manx star pays tribute to Island roots in journey so far

Freddie O'Donoghue says he wants to relish playing football after debut season with Carlisle United. 

The Manxman made his move to Carlisle on his 16th birthday and has since made 5 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal. 

"Things change so quickly" says Freddie. 

"You need the opportunity, my whole thing is just be ready. If I don't get the opportunity straight away, just keep working". 

Playing for Peel and the Isle of Man national youth teams, Freddie's talent was spotted at an early age with a potential move up to Scotland at 14 on the cards.

However, it was games against Carlisle at 15 that drew the attention of the Cumbrian side. 

The 18-year-old credits his development on the Island in helping get to the professional game:

After making his debut in September, it didn't take long for Freddie to score his first goal as he netted the second in a 2-1 win away at Morecambe in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy in November. 

However, in the second half of the season the Manxman injured his shoulder which meant he had to sit on the side-lines for the remainder of the year.

This didn't affect his immediate future at Carlisle though as he was given a contract extension in March to keep him in the North West. 

Freddie explained how he didn't let the setback affect him: 

On 6 February, the club appointed former Manchester United and Welsh striker, Mark Hughes who also managed several Premier League sides including Manchester City. 

Freddie also sees himself as a forward and says he's enjoying working with Hughes so far: "He's great honestly, around all the lads he's got such a calm demeanour.

"The way it went towards the back end of the season, obviously no one was happy, but as a gaffer he is absolutely spot on". 

On any one-on-one sessions with the Welshman, Freddie said: "I haven't had many, obviously I was injured when he came in, but from what I have had, he's great."

Carlisle's first pre-season fixture will take place against Motherwell on 8 July and the youngster described how he's prepared for the new season: 

"I've done what most footballers do, I've been on holiday, took some time to relax.

"And then after two, three weeks back to fitness, running, playing football and just try and give myself the best chance next season."