Jamie McDonagh says coming to Chester FC was an 'easy decision' because he wants to test himself against tougher defences.

The 19-year-old moved to the Lookers Vauxhall Stadium on a month's loan from Sheffield United and hopes the arrangement can be a long-term one should things go well.

He has been a regular in the under-21s at Brammall Lane for the past two seasons but now feels ready for the cut-and-thrust of the National League.

Blues boss Steve Burr has been aware of the Northern Ireland under-19 international for some time and made his move this week.

McDonagh confirmed he did not take long to make a decision when Blades coach Chris Morgan made him aware of Chester's interest.

He said: "For me it was quite easy because I've been in the under-21s for two years and I thought I needed to go out somewhere and test myself and show the gaffer at Sheffield United what I can do by hopefully scoring some goals at this level

"Chris Morgan came to me on Wednesday morning after a game on Tuesday and said 'Chester want you' and I said that's no problem and I'd love to go there straightway.

"It's a lot more competitive when you're playing week in, week out for points on the board and obviously it's a lot tougher when you're coming up against big players with a bit more experience.

"I know it's quite a big club in and around the area and I've got a few friends who've played against them and they've said there's a good fanbase.

"It's been tough this season so far playing for the under-21s so I'm looking forward to coming here and hopefully scoring some goals to help them move up the table."

Jamie McDonagh has moved to Chester for a month initially
Jamie McDonagh has moved to Chester for a month initially

Belfast-born McDonagh enjoyed a productive spell with Matlock Town in the second half of last season, netting six times in 20 appearances for the Gladiators.

He hopes to make a good impression over the next month with a view to extending his loan deal.

"That's what I want to do, hopefully I'll be here longer than a month and help the club move up the table and bring some goals and assists," he said.

"I'm the sort of striker that likes to be competitive and I like getting up against centre halves and running in behind. I scored a few goals in the Evo-Stik League last season for Matlock Town so hopefully I can do that here."

McDonagh's first taste of the National League could not be tough with Chester visiting top-of-the-table Forest Green Rovers on Saturday (3pm).

Burr could decide to start him from the bench with James Roberts available again, but McDonagh insist he'll be ready if and when he's called upon.

"It's a very big test for the first game but if I'm in the team then I'll obviously try my best to help them team get three points," he said.