Max Melbourne admits that patience is a virtue as a young footballer and says that his wait for a League start is something that he’s been working hard for and isn’t taking any moment for granted.
The popular 21-year-old relished the opportunity to make his starting League debut for The Imps last weekend and he’s looking forward to his next chance to pull on the City shirt.
Max, who initially joined on loan back in August says his decision to move to The Imps in the summer has been more than justified as he was delighted to stride out onto the pitch against Blackpool at home on Saturday.
“I’ve been on two loans before I came here and unfortunately didn’t get the games I thought I deserved. Being patient is a big part of the learning experience and managers sometimes want experience, thankfully I had my chance on Saturday and hopefully I can keep my place from there.”
After having a taste of first team football in previous loan moves North of the border with Ross County and Partick Thistle in Scotland, Max was determined for more as he felt that it was the necessary step for his development.
“I first went there when I was 18, it was a massive step for me and there were a few people at the club I was previously at who questioned if I could do it. But it was a successful spell in the sense that I moved away from home and learned different things, learned from different managers and being in a first team environment really benefitted me which made me who I am today.
“My plan was always to go out on loan, under 23’s football is more of a stepping stone, it’s beneficial to a certain point but I think I’m passed that.
"To come to Lincoln was a no brainer and it hasn’t let me down.”
Just ahead of walking out onto the pitch at LNER Stadium last weekend, Max put pen to paper on a permanent deal to stay with The Imps on a permanent basis and it’s his experiences with The Imps so far that made his mind up as there was interest in his services from elsewhere.
“Yeah, there were other clubs interested in me, some other clubs promising me other things but the gaffer here told me I was part of his plans and asked me to be patient with him. I’ve put my trust in him, I believe him in and I want to kick on from there. He’s really good to work with, he gets the best out of players and you can see that in the performances the team are putting out there.”
As the conversation moved to his debut, Max has a distinct smile on his face and admits there was a little nervousness ahead of kick off, but he’s now fully focussed on trying to keep his place in the team.
“If I wasn’t a little nervous I’d have been worried, but the adrenaline was good. It was a good feeling. I was possibly being reserved initially so warming myself into it so hopefully I think over the next few games people will see more of the real me. I’m excited I’ve been working hard for this moment, I’ll continue to do that and hopefully I can get that run of games.”
