Source: Northern_Echo
Arnison always ready for action
FORGOTTEN man Paul Arnison says that a professional approach ensured he was ready for action when called on after a lengthy absence from first-team duties.[LNB] He slotted into the side for last week's game with Aldershot and also played in Saturday's 2-0 win at Shrewsbury, doubling his appearance tally for the last five months in the process.[LNB] The 31-year-old had been frozen out by Steve Staunton, but the manager's sacking signalled a route back and despite having been excluded from first-team training Arnison was ready for action.[LNB] He said: I've just kept my head down, worked hard while I trained with the youth team and hopefully you'll see the benefits.[LNB] Every footballer wants to play so it was frustrating. I stayed as professional as I could be which is all you can do in them situations. Then, if your chance comes along, you're ready to take it.[LNB] I've kept fit because training with the kids is hard work, Craig Liddle trains them hard. It's not like you mess around, he trains you hard and I really have enjoyed working with him.[LNB] I've kept ticking over by going on runs on a Sunday on my own in case something came along and obviously it has with the manager getting sacked.[LNB] You've got look after yourself because I want to play on, whether it's at Darlington or somewhere else. You never know when someone is watching so you've got to be fit when your chance comes.[LNB] Saturday's win was Quakers' first in 11 games, and Arnison added: I think we showed today that the lads are sticking together. If I'm honest the team spirit hasn't been as good as it should've been but today on the pitch we showed that we're fighting for each other.[LNB] Lidds and Maddo have come in and told us to give our all, to work together as a team.[LNB] Arnison scored a consolation against Aldershot, but despite it being his first since 2003 he does not want to be credited with the goal.[LNB] It crossed the line following a significant bobble in the goalmouth and he said: No chance am I claiming it, I'd be embarrassed. I just tried to whip the ball in the box and I turned away but the next thing I know it's in the back of the net.[LNB] I it would've been nice if it was to get us a point because I think we deserved something out of the game.[LNB] But I'm not claiming it, no way. I don't think anybody would claim that goal, apparently on Soccer AM they gave it to A Divot![LNB]
