ROSS HANNAH has told The NLP he feels ready for any big occasion his Grimsby career throws at him after being on the bench in Bradford’s Capital Cup semi-final first-leg win over Aston Villa.
The 26-year-old former Matlock Town striker scored nine goals in 14 starts during a three-month loan at Blundell Park, but returned to the League Two Bantams before Christmas.
The clubs finally agreed on a fee to secure his return to Cleethorpes on a permanent deal this week, and with the Mariners chasing Blue Square Bet Premier promotion and FA Trophy success, Hannah says he’s ready for anything.
He told The NLP: “It was brilliant being involved in front of a 22,000 crowd in such a big game.
“I’ve had that experience, whether I’ve played or been on the bench, of being involved in front of big crowds for the last year and a bit at Bradford and I’d like to think that I wouldn’t get overawed with big crowds anymore because I’ve been used to it.
“Even though I didn’t get on the pitch, it was really good to be involved the other night. From my Matlock days, I never thought I’d ever be involved in a League Cup semi-final.
“It’s a cliché, but you do dream about it and football‘s a funny old game, isn’t it? One minute you find yourself out on loan, the next minute you’re on the bench in a League Cup semi-final. Then you’re sold. It’s surreal.
“I’ve enjoyed my time at such a good club as Bradford and I have learned a lot. I’d have liked to have played more, but I’m also happy and lucky that I’m going to a great club in Grimsby Town.”
For more of Ross Hannah’s thoughts on his move to Grimsby, see Sunday’s edition of The Non-League Paper.
