The Highs and Lows of Mickey Cooke

Filled with promise from an early age, Michael Cooke was part of a formidable Don Bosco's side in his youth which included a number of local football luminaries including former Republic of Ireland Under 19 international and current Derry City man Ruairí Harkin. A passionate footballer with an eye for goal, Cooke has returned to play for his local team under Noel O'Donnell after a stop-start love-affair with the Strathfoyle men.

The tall playmaker admitted that his experience with Lisahally has been filled with highs and lows, but has expressed his joy at the fact that he is now playing again.

"It's true Lisah' and myself haven't always been on the best terms, down to slanderous remarks made in the media and all round bad vibes coming out of the club", he said.

"But all that seems to be resolved and I'm glad to be back playing for my local team with my mates again. The craic's good!"

And that positivity is also reflected in Cooke's opinion on the club's chances of avoiding relegation after a "brutal start to the season".

"I'm sure everyone would agree that if there's anyone in Strathfoyle that knows their football, it's stroker [Noel O'Donnell] and since he's come in, bringing a few fresh faces in Jonny Hume and Gavin McShane (and a few blasts from the past) me, everyone in the changing rooms seems to be on the same side, and enjoying themselves which can only be good for our chances of survival."

Cooke (centre) playing for Lisahally

Cooke also shared his thoughts on the return of the "Judas"-turned-"Prodigal Son", Kieran McGlinchey. Laughing sarcastically at the question, Cooke quipped: "I don't know what all the fuss is about. He's more at home on a building site than a football pitch anyway, the Polish looking c**t.", before quickly reassuring this reporter that he was, in fact, joking.

"He's a great addition to be bringing in to the squad," Cooke admitted, but conceded that the former lynch pin will have a battle on his hands for a place, "Stiff competition these days".

However, staying positive, Cooke was frank in his appraisal of McGlinchey, laughing: "Im sure if "wee Arshavin" gets his spot back he'll take some moving, the fat c**t!"

With the squad growing and gelling smoothly, the midfielder suggested that Lisahally have no need to strengthen, considering the "good mix of youth and experience in the ranks, which bodes well for the future".

However, he welcomed any addition that would improve the squad.

"If there's a chance to bring in a few players to benefit the squad, then of course the more the merrier, especially if we can bring in someone who can show Aidy how to tie his laces"

"We'd be flying then.", he joked.

Having settled well back into the squad, Cooke expressed his concern at being left alone in the showers with Big Joe:

"That's not good for any man's confidence, he's a tripod!"

Reassuming a serious front, Cooke reflected on his long career with Lisahally, which started at the youthful age of 16. When asked what his career highlight, he mulled over a few candidates.

"Picking up the trophy for Best Young Player in my debut season at the tender age of 16 was good steam, as was the cup triumph a few years ago and the night out after it,"

"But my highlight so far must be Duffys sister... it has to be!", he laughed.

After scoring at the weekend, the versatile forward laid down his personal aims for the rest of the season, which included scoring more goals to help maintain a good cup run and of course to make sure Lisahally stay in the Premier Division, "That would be ideal.", he said.

And Cooke strongly believes that there are "big things in store in future" if Lisahally can "Keep 'er lit".

"Shake 'n' Bake!", says he.