By DANIEL TULLY
DARYL CONARTY admits he’s a quiet guy by nature - but he’s quickly letting his football do the talking.
Earlier this year the 18-year-old became the first player to make the step up to the first team from the club’s academy.
He has received widespread praise from his coaches since joining from Clydebank 12 months ago.
Equipped with good ability and a determined attitude, his versatility on the field might prove most useful.
He can play a variety of positions across defence and midfield.
Speaking about the step up Conarty said: “It’s a completely different level of football. Going into the first team the boys understood I was stepping up and were very welcoming.
“Moving up wasn’t hard but adjusting to the new level is.”
Shy and modest, Daryl is quick to play down what he’s achieved.
He said: “This is going to improve my confidence. Most of the players go into games quite calm but I’m usually a nervous wreck when I’m playing.
“It will improve my communication as I’m a quiet guy.”
Last term Conarty played for the development squad which played in the amateur leagues before his form saw him fast-tracked.
United’s second string will feature in the Lowland Development League this term, while a 2008s side has been added to the 2007s team which was also started 12 months ago.
Conarty’s promotion is proof of the good work being carried out by academy boss John Campbell.
Conarty said: “There was a lot to learn when I went into the development team. The club is close-knitted so they try their best to get youth players to step up.
“It’s definitely worth joining. There is a good group of boys and a great set up. The football is really quite a tough standard so you’ll learn a lot.”
The midfielder who is currently studying civil engineering at college has plans to move onto university next year.
United will play in the new West of Scotland League this term. He added: “Hopefully we can push for promotion next year.
“The new league set up is quite exciting for the club. It’d be good to one day come up against teams like my old team Clydebank.”
Are you or your children interested in joining the academy? We have 2007s, 2008s and an Under-20s Development team. Call academy manager John Campbell on 07903 279638 for more information.
