Former Skelmersdale United FC striker George Donnelly more than happy with his move to Championship side Plymouth Argyle

Mar 26 2009 by Philip Kirkbride, Skelmersdale Advertiser

FORMER Skelmersdale United striker George Donnelly has admitted he only ever wanted to leave West Lancashire for one club.

The 20-year-old hitman left the UniBond First Division North high-flyers for Championship side Plymouth Argyle earlier this month in a record club transfer for Skem.

Although a number of other clubs were chasing the signature of the 36 goal forward, Donnelly says the early interest shown by Paul Sturrock’s Argyle helped him make up his mind pretty quickly.

After nearly two weeks training with the Home Park outfit, George (pictured) has now settled in the city after moving in with former Skem star Craig Noone and is relishing the opportunity to prove himself in the second tier of English football.

George said: “It was a relief to finally get the move, I was very close to moving to Scunthorpe, they offered me a good deal but Plymouth were the first team that came in for me and showed an interest - I already had my mind set on coming to Plymouth and was never thinking of moving to Southport or Fleetwood.

It was really good at Skem, they were a good set of players, staff and Tommy was brilliant, just everyone was really good - the fans were great.

“Every game I went in thinking I would score, it was not that it was becoming easy it was just that I was comfortable with the lads I was playing with.

“I am enjoying the move to full-time football a lot more, I definitely noticed the quicker pace in the first few training sessions and it is all about nutrition and eating the right things as well.

“I am quite comfortable with all the press attention and stuff but it is a lot to get used to.

“I have played a few games for the reserves but hopefully will get my first team chance at the end of the season. Paul Sturrock has just told me to work hard in training and carry on with what I have been doing. There are a few things I need to work on but fingers crossed I will get my chance.

“The lads have not stitched me up yet but I am keeping my wits about me.”