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.
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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.
“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.”