City keeper on injury support from former F1 driver and his hopes after signing new deal
Jon McCracken in goal for Norwich City Under-23s against Wolfsburg in the Premier League International Cup during the 2018-19 season PICTURE: Jamie Honeywood - Credit: Archant
Norwich City youngster Jon McCracken has spoken about how advice from his half-brother, former Formula One driver Paul Di Resta, has helped him to get his career back on track.
The 20-year-old goalkeeper was a regular at under-23 level for City during 2018-19 but wasn’t involved last season, only to sign a new one-year contract this summer.
The former Hamilton Academical trainee explained: “Paul’s my half-brother, we have the same mum but different dad. We’re close, I grew up with Paul and our brother Stefan.
“When I had my back problems last year, I went to Monaco to see Paul. I don’t see much of him as he’s obviously busy so whenever I get the chance, I’m always out there.
“Monaco isn’t a bad place to go on holiday and staying with Paul saves me a few quid on hotels! Before I was involved in football full-time, I went to a lot of Paul’s races and took a keen interest in Formula One. I’ve followed his career and been around the world.
Former F1 driver Paul Di Resta, pictured during the Force India launch at Silverstone in 2013, is the half-brother of Norwich City academy goalkeeper Jon McCracken Picture: David Davies/PA Wire - Credit: PA
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“I’ve been really lucky. When you get to see what life as a professional athlete is like, you want it yourself. It’s definitely a bonus having someone like that close to me. It’s inspirational and drives me on.”
McCracken also talked about his hopes of being called up to the Scotland Under-21 squad, having previously been capped at U17 level, and words of support from City keepers Tim Krul and Michael McGovern during his injury battle.
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Speaking to Scottish newspaper the Sunday Mail, he continued: “Norwich have given me another chance, which is a real show of faith.
“They’ve shown belief in me, especially after being out for almost a year. Now I want to repay the gaffer and hopefully this will be the season to really kick on.
Norwich City goalkeepers, from left, Aston Oxborough, Jon McCracken and Tim Krul speak to Norwich City legend Kevin Keelan during the Canaries' warm weather training camp in Florida in November 2018 Picture: Archant library - Credit: David Freezer
“I want to play as many games as I possibly can this season, whether it’s for Norwich Under-23s or going out on loan.
“I’ve just turned 20 which is still young for a keeper but I want to play.
“Some managers are wary of playing keepers without experience. But if a loan comes up now, we’ll look at it.
“I don’t regret coming here. I’m a far better keeper now and I’ve learned so much.”
