Ayr new boy Chris Maguire admits he’s desperate to make up for lost time by hitting the goal trail at Somerset Park.
The former Aberdeen, Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland striker today ended a six month exile from football by joining United.
And he’s set his sights on breathing fresh life into Ayr’s push for promotion.
The 34-year-old, who’s been capped twice for Scotland, links up again in Ayrshire with Owls legend Lee Bullen.
Maguire told the Ayrshire Post: “With the experience I’ve got, I’d like to think I can bring something to the squad here.
“They’ve had a great season so far and there’s lots still to play for in the run-in.
“I went along to watch them at Cove the other week and was really impressed with what I saw.
“Ayr blew them away that night and the style of football they played is something I can see myself enjoying.”
Maguire has been kicking his heels since August after breaching FA rules on betting.
A prolonged probe eventually saw him banned for six weeks but he is now cleared to resume his career.
And he insists he’s raring to get going again.
He said: “Football is all I’ve ever known, so for that to be taken away from me has been tough.
“It’s been a very frustrating time for me.
“But I’m choking to get back out there and play again and make up for lost time.
“I had other options in the pipeline and didn’t want to rush into a decision.
“But the opportunity to come here with a manager I know is one that really appeals to me.
“I think he can get the best out of me and hopefully I can repay his faith in me by getting among the goals.
“If we’re going to win a league and get to Hampden in the cup then we’ll need everyone chipping in and I’m here to do that.”
Boss Bullen added: “Chris can be a real x-factor for us.
“His experience will be vital in these final 12 league games and in terms of technical ability, he’s a tremendous player who’s played at a right good level all of his career.
“It’s a huge bonus for us to bring in someone of his calibre at this stage.”
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