WATCH: McGinn "no regrets" about South Korean adventure
NI star also reveals he still goes to Swifts boss for advice
Last updated 8th Dec 2017
Northern Ireland star Niall McGinn has revealed he has “no regrets” about giving up his career in the Scottish Premiership – for a new life in South Korea.
The 30-year-old returned home a fortnight ago after joining K-league side Gwangju from Aberdeen only in the summer.
But he failed to adapt to Asian football and terminated his contract last month.
Speaking exclusively on Cool FM’s Facebook Football Show, in partnership with NIFL, McGinn said:
“It was very interesting,” he said.
“I signed halfway through the season. It was obviously very difficult for me - they were currently bottom of the table and I was sort of playing catch up.
“But all in all, looking back, it was an enjoyable experience for me and one I have no regrets about.”
And McGinn, who has been attending some Danske Bank Premiership games since his return home, says he still goes to familiar Irish League faces for advice.
He began his career at Dungannon Swifts and revealed he seeks out current boss Rodney McAree for guidance.
“It is always nice to go back and see familiar faces,” he added.
“People who have helped me throughout my younger days – people who have given me advice.
“I still go to the likes of Rodney (McAree) Joe McAree and Dixie Robinson – those who have helped me throughout my career – for advice along the way.”
Also on our show, which will can now be viewed on Cool FM's Facebook page, is Carrick Rangers manager Davy McAlinden.
He challenged his side to finally start producing the goods in the Danske Bank Premiership.
"I keep hearing people say, you were close again on Saturday," he said.
"I have heard that so many times - it's monotonous - ultimately we come away without the points."
Former Carrick player McAlinden was appointed in May.
He says he knew what he was getting into.
"“I wasn’t stupid enough when I took the job in the summer to think it would be all butterflies and rainbows- that was never the case,” he said.
“I was never going in there and overnight make the club something that was not achievable."
See both Davy and Niall on this week's show (press play below)