John McAtee told to make most of AFC Telford spell
Boss Gavin Cowan has urged young playmaker John McAtee to ‘recognise and capitalise on his ability’ during his second loan spell at AFC Telford United.
The 19-year-old has joined from county rivals Shrewsbury Town for a month, after spending the tail end of last season with the Bucks.
He scored once in seven Telford appearances.
“We’re fortunate to have him. I obviously worked with him last season and he’s got bags of ability,” said Cowan.
“He needs managing on and off the pitch, and I’m confident we can get the best out of him as me and John have a mutual respect.
“He’s massively talented and a good option to have.”
McAtee’s preferred position is as a second striker, but he can also play on either flank.
He netted against the Bucks while on loan at Ashton United earlier this month.
“He just needs to get his head down, work hard, and bring the talent he can bring as it’s not going to be easy for him to get into the team,” said Cowan.
“He needs to recognise and capitalise on his ability.
“We had Ryan Sears and he did well and returned to Shrewsbury better for the experience. And it’s up to John to do the same.”
McAtee’s strike against Telford was the only goal he got for Ashton. He made nine appearances for them – just three starts.
“I know Jody Banim, the manager at Ashton, really well and he was very complimentary of John,” added Cowan.
“But with how things were going for them, they had to go with a bit more experience.
“John is not a luxury player, but he can drift in and out of games.
“He’ll have to be at it every week for us.”
The Bucks have been granted permission to use McAtee in the FA Cup.
