FORMER European Champions League semi finalist Ian Harte is determined to break into Blackpool's first team because it's the kind of club at which he'd like to finish his.
The 31-year-old is hot on the heels of Joe Martin as he attempts to nick the left back slot for Saturday's home clash with Swansea.
With Martin in good form, however, Harte is likely to have to be patient.
But he's content to bide his time and
determined to grab his opportunity when it arises.
"This is a massive moment in my career because I really want to play football regularly," said Harte, who played for Leeds against Valencia in the last four of the Champions League in 2001.
"I've just turned 31 and I don't want to hang up the boots. I've got the passion, I want to play and I'm up for the fight.
"Nobody has given me any assurances about getting a game. At end of day it is up to the gaffer to select who he thinks is the best 11 most suited to getting three points.
"If I am chosen at some stage then I will do what I have to do. If not you have to be supportive of the rest of the squad.
"But I will give my all to prove I'm good enough to deserve a game.
"Myself and my wife live in Preston so Blackpool is an ideal club for me and it's the kind of club I'd like to finish my career at.
"But first thing's first. It's only a month at the moment and it's up to me to try and prove I deserve longer than that. You never know what will happen after that."
Harte spent nine years at Leeds before being forced out when the club's financial problems hit.
He moved to Levante in Spain's La Liga – " a brilliant three years and a great experience" – before returning to English football at Sunderland last season, where he made eight Premier League appearances.
Since being released in the summer, Harte has struggled to find a new club.
But after trials at Charlton, Sheffield United and Wolves, Blackpool finally offered him a deal – and he says he has more determination to succeed now than ever before.
Contract
"I've probably got more passion now than I had in the old days when I was playing for Ireland and Leeds," said Harte.
"When I was at Leeds it was a five-year contract and it was comfortable I suppose.
"But I am where I am now and I need to fight to get a contract so I'm working harder than ever.
"I need to prove it on the pitch and try and help the team, whether it's from set plays, or getting a few goals myself, and try and help Blackpool the gaffer as well.
"Joe Martin is in at moment. But the gaffer has said that he needs competition and I have to wait for my chance. Hopefully it will come sooner rather than later."
And from what he's seen of Pool so far, he has no doubt they're good enough for the Championship.
"The standard of the Championship is very good and it is much better than it was a few years ago," he added.
"But Blackpool will absolutely stay up – there is no doubt about that.
"I've seen them a few times now and they are a good side. I'm glad I'm here and I'm looking to get involved as soon as possible."
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