The rough and tumble of non-league football isn’t for everyone, but Michael Ledger is relishing the challenges posed by playing in the National League and taking it all in his stride.
Currently on a season-long loan with Hartlepool United, Ledger has made an immediate impression at Victoria Park with his first four starts helping Pools pick up 10 points.
Unfortunately, his involvement has been curtailed in recent weeks due a hamstring injury, but after working closely with the club’s medical team he’s on the mend and hoping to return within next week.
And although the injury came at a frustrating time, it’s done little to dampen what has been a thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile experience so far.
“It’s been great,” said Ledger.
“I’m pleased manager had faith to put me in and we went on a really good run after I joined, so now I’m just focussed on getting back into the team and helping them move up the table.”
He continued: “I picked up a hamstring injury the day before a game which was really frustrating, but the medical lads have been looking after me and I’ve been working hard to get fit.
“We have a tough game this weekend at Solihull Moors and hopefully I can be in contention, but if I don’t make it there’s next week’s FA Cup game at South Shields to look forward to.
“It’s been an eye-opening experience but I’m really enjoying it. It’s totally different to Norwiegen football – which I played on loan last year – and I’ve come up against some really good strikers.
“I’ve had some good battles but I want to learn and I want to get better, and every game is really physical and has a competitive edge because teams want to beat Hartlepool.
“It’s been really easy to settle and it helps that a lot of the group are from the north east – the ex-Sunderland lads have looked after me a lot – so I can’t wait to get back out there.”