Latics midfielder looks ahead to Tuesday's visit of Crewe Alexandra

Match Day Programme | Jamie McGrath feature interview
McGrath reflects on his first couple of weeks at the DW Stadium and discusses his determination to make a big impact in the second half of the 2021/22 campaign
Latics midfielder is the feature interview in Tuesday's matchday programme against Crewe Alexandra

After arriving at the DW Stadium from Scottish Premiership side St Mirren, Jamie McGrath is hoping to make a big impact in the second half of the 2021/22 campaign.

McGrath joined Latics on a two-and-a-half-year deal in January after a successful spell north of the border. The Republic of Ireland international provided a real creative spark during his stay in Scotland, scoring 20 goals and creating a further seven for his teammates, form which resulted in him being named the 2020/21 St Mirren Player of the Year.

The midfield playmaker made his Latics debut in our Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round trip to Stoke City before being handed his first Sky Bet League One start in last Tuesday's narrow defeat at Sheffield Wednesday. He has already caught the eye of supporters with his excellent flair and technique, and the 25-year-old spoke about his determination to contribute as much as he can to help Latics push towards promotion in their remaining 18 league games.

"I want to try and hit the ground running in the best way I can," he said.

"I want to adapt quickly to how we do things around here, and what the gaffer expects from myself and the team. If it means goals or assists, I will give my all to provide them, but as long as we get three points, I don't mind. I think the base is working hard, and wherever that takes you, that is a bonus.

"I'm really determined (to help the Club push for promotion). I think it is everybody's goal and we're in a strong place at the minute. We'd like to get points on the board and make the most out of our games in hand. The boys have been brilliant in the first half of the season, and hopefully, I can add to it, and we can finish the season strongly."

Despite only being at the Club for just over two weeks, McGrath expressed that he already feels at home due to the welcoming nature of his teammates and believes that the strong camaraderie amongst the dressing room will be a huge benefit to the squad.

"I have loved it here since I came in," he said.

"Since day one, the boys have been top-notch. I've heard from James (McClean) that it is a great place to be, and he's certainly not let me down. It's a great environment to be involved in, everyone works hard, and it's been really enjoyable so far.

"All the boys have been so welcoming. There are a lot of big players with a lot of experience so it's great to be involved and learn from them. The key to success is a good dressing room and I've certainly found that so far. I'm feeling right at home straight away and I think Glen (Rea) is of the same opinion. We just couldn't believe how welcoming everyone was!"

Latics have been backed by home and away by their magnificent supporters, acting as a huge contributing factor behind Leam Richardson's side excellent form in the first half of the 2021/22 campaign. The Republic of International was quick to heap the praise on the Latics faithful and emphasised how important they will be between now and the end of the season.

"It's been unbelievable. The FA Cup game was a great debut to be involved in," he explained, "It was not the result we wanted but the travelling support was eye-opening and the following we brought was class.

"When you see the size of the Stadium and the crowds we are getting at the minute, it's brilliant. You want to be out there to try and excite the fans and hopefully get the three points every game. I am really looking forward to playing in front of them at the DW and away from home as well.

"Coming towards the end of the season, we will need the fans more than ever. They have been so important, and they will continue to be. I am sure the place will be rocking from now until the end of the season.

"I'd like to thank the fans for welcoming me in. I have seen all the messages on social media and I'm really grateful for the support. Hopefully, we can repay them with some big wins. It's a big end to the month coming up and hopefully, we can finish the season strongly."

Jamie McGrath | "I want to try and hit the ground running in the best way I can"