Finlay Macnab has been rewarded for his progress through the ranks with a professional contract at AFC Wimbledon.
The 18-year-old, who scored for our first-team in the pre-season friendly versus Crystal Palace, put pen to paper on his first pro deal. There will be no time for Finlay to rest on his laurels though as he is bound for Leatherhead! The midfielder is joining BetVictor Isthmian Premier Division club in a loan deal for an initial 28 days. Finlay joins fellow Don Tommy Wood at Leatherhead.
Finlay, who was previously with Brentford’s academy, was offered a scholarship by Wimbledon after impressing at a trial and he’s continued to progress as a young footballer.
Speaking after Finlay signed his first pro deal, Wally Downes said: “Finlay had an injury last season and no one was really sure whether to take him or not, but Glyn and I saw something in him in one of the first games that we watched, a reserve match when he came on as a substitute. We had to take into account his injury, but we said that we would give him until Christmas with a full pre-season behind him. He has done very well and I look at him and ‘Rudi’ (Jack Rudoni) and I think there is a very solid midfield in terms of looking forward at this club.
“We are lucky to have both of them here at this stage. It’s about us now progressing and developing them, so that they can be the future for us at this club. Finlay is a very strong kid, he is very determined, very bright, and I think everyone has seen enough of Rudi to think that he’s an emerging talent as well. There are boys coming through now and that will stand us in good stead.”
Rob Cornell caught up with Finlay shortly after he signed his pro deal and the full interview is below.