I was working in IT recruitment just two months ago but now I’m set to star at Stamford Bridge
THE SEVEN MILES from Plough Lane to Stamford Bridge represents one heck of a journey for AFC Wimbledon’s Ryan McLean.
Barely two months ago he was sitting at a desk, propping up his non-League wages at Hereford with a part-time office job in Shrewsbury.
Just about as far from London’s glamorous King’s Road as you can get in every sense.
Tonight he will bid to knock mighty Chelsea out of the Carabao Cup while simultaneously attempting to take stock of a whirlwind summer that has transformed the life of Ryan.
McLean, 23, signed his first professional contract in June – just two days before pre-season started at League Two Dons.
Nine weeks later he could line up against not one but the TWO most expensive players in British history in Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
He said: “I am trying to take it in my stride but I can’t really explain it. To come from playing in parks to Stamford Bridge is pretty cool.
“It will probably hit me more when I am there but I am buzzing, I can’t wait and am desperately trying not to overthink it.
“A big away day as a player has always been my dream but I always thought it might come in the FA Cup.
“I have never even been to Stamford Bridge as a fan. The best ground I have ever played at is probably Plough Lane. I have played in front of crowds of about 20 people at times.
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“At 18 I was playing Saturday county league stuff and not getting paid at all. Being at Hereford I needed a job and I worked as a mechanic at Audi as well.
“I worked as a ‘resourcer’ – matching companies with IT vacancies with the right people via websites like Indeed.
“One day I was at work when my phone rang and it was my agent asking me if I fancied moving to League Two.
“It was a very quick decision even though there were only a couple of days before pre-season started.
“I can’t even remember how it all panned out because everything happened so fast. It was a bit confusing really.”
Greenfield IT Recruitment’s loss is Wimbledon’s gain.
On his professional debut, McLean smashed a left-foot volley home against Coventry that earns The Dons a trip to their illustrious South West London neighbours.
He said: “That was my weaker foot as well. When it went in I really wasn’t sure what to do.
“I wanted to do a knee-slide but the Coventry fans were right in front of me so I just charged along the pitch and dropped to the floor.
“Goalscoring isn’t my strength either. I am quick and direct, hardworking and like to run with the ball at my feet.
“I am a late starter in the professional game, I get that. But everyone has a different pathway.
“Turning pro isn’t even getting me extra money. I’d say I earn a similar amount now to what I was before at Hereford and with my part-time office job. But it’s amazing.
“I’m in a house with a couple of the other lads and it’s great although Southerners do take a bit of getting used to. Everyone is a cheeky chappy down here.”
McLean’s impact has got everyone connected to AFC Wimbledon talking with some at the club nicknaming their new recruit ‘toothpaste’ because of his surname but also because of his dazzling start to life at their club.
He added: “I went to Wembley before with Hereford for the FA Trophy final.
“But I was cup-tied. I was allowed to walk out onto the pitch, even warm up with the other players but had to sit in the stands because I had played for Newcastle Town in an earlier round.
“That’s obviously a magnificent stadium but Stamford Bridge will be just brilliant. I know how loud it is going to be as well.
“The away end is sold out already because it’s a big night for Wimbledon and their fans.
“I have loads of friends and family on my case for tickets – so far about a dozen, it’s crazy.”
McLean will do his best not to be starstruck but also hopes he can take home a souvenir on the night.
He said: “As a winger, I do think Raheem Sterling is a cracking player and a great example.
“If he plays and I can get a word in, I will try to get his shirt.”