Nicky Travis came to Australia early this year desperate to ignite his career and get regular first team action.
Now the former Sheffield United academy player is finally making an impact as a professional.
The attacking midfielder is almost certain to be named in Central Coast’s starting side for the Mariners round five Hyundai A-League showdown against Perth at Canberra Stadium on Friday night.
An outstanding performance coming off the bench in a 1-0 defeat against Brisbane last week has convinced Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna to give Travis a shot from the opening whistle.
“He’s done everything asked of him since he’s been at the club,” said McKinna, who is still unsure who will make way for Travis.
“When he came on against Brisbane he made an impact, that’s all you can ask from a replacement. He’s good with the ball at this feet and works well with the strikers.”
After a horror run with injury Travis came to Australia hoping to get regular action and will now be under pressure to keep his place in the team.
“I’m loving the lifestyle on the coast,” Travis said.
“I’m still getting used to the weather, in Sheffield its pretty much always cold and raining. It’s taken a bit of time but things off the pitch are good which makes things easier on the pitch.”
Travis loves to push forward and his link play with the Mariners strikers will be a key factor against Perth.
“I like to be advanced and support the strikers,” he said.
“This is my chance to cement my spot.”
After a win and two draws from their opening three matches, the Mariners were beaten for the first time against Roar at the weekend and are desperate to score their second win of the season.
