Kevin Doherty reveals ‘strong words' with Drogheda Utd teen star, 19, amid early struggles after heroics vs Galway Utd
Doherty handed a first start to 19-year-old
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And after powering home in the 49th minute, the teenage forward ran straight to embrace his gaffer.
But things have not always been rosy between the two.
Doherty said: 'I'm delighted for him, he was excellent. When he came to us at the start of the season, it took him a while to get going. He wasn't in physical shape to play for the 20s, never mind us.
'I had some strong words with him but also gave him love as well, which you need to do. He's responded excellently.'
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Kareem joined the Drogs in the close-season after spending time in the St Pat's academy.
With Warren Davis and
Josh
Thomas injured, and ex-loan striker Douglas James-Taylor now at Bohemians, Kareem grabbed his chance with both hands.
Doherty continued: 'It wasn't a hunch because I've seen it in training. I've seen that he will really, really suit us and suit this league.
'It's great and you're a genius when these things works out.
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'I had no doubts. I was speaking to a couple of supporters about him before the game and I said, 'I'm telling you, this is going to
work
for us' and thankfully it did.'
Drogheda have a quiet July ahead with only Crumlin United to come in the
League of Ireland mascots compete in charity race in Naas
After the Cup holders get their defence under way on July 18, they will have a training camp before league action returns.
Doherty added: 'We've played five games in two weeks, with six players missing.
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'We'll be fresh coming into games now. We're a really good side. When we're not playing five games in 14 days, we'll continue to be a good side.'
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Drogheda United manager Kevin Doherty celebrates with Fuhad Kareem after the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match against Galway United
Credit: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile
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