Manager says sorry tomidfielder

The midfielder is continuing to solider on despite having a knee injury and Kee admits he may need to rest him.

“Michael was involved in the first goal and he’s involved in most things that are good for us,” added Kee.

“Even the two goals against Newbuildings United last week he was involved, so we really need him on the pitch.”

The ’Stute gaffer also conceded that he has been unfair to the ex-Derry City man, by playing him even though he isn’t 100 per cent fit.

Kee even admitted that he apologised to the Gobnascale man, but with four league matches between this Saturday and Christmas he’s hoping McCrudden can continue to play through the pain barrier.

In fact after this weekend’s trip to Knockbreda, the Drumahoe club entertain fellow title challengers Harland & Wolff Welders, before travelling to in-form league leaders Dundela, who like ’Stute are free scoring this season.

Mark Snodden’s men have scored 28 goals in the league and like ’Stute are unbeaten in the league.

“But to be honest I’m not being fair to him and I apologised to him at the start of the game, because we need him playing, but there’s no reason why he can’t play at least another two levels up, because he’s creative, inventive and nice to watch.

“I feel for him because we need him on the pitch and we are flogging him, but we do need him because he’s a key player for us.

“He came off disappointed on Saturday because of his performance, but I told him ‘listen don’t be silly, we know you shouldn’t be playing, but we need you’.”