New Finn Harps man Max Hutchison determined to stand on his own two feet 

Max Hutchison doesn't mind when the conversation drifts towards his famous dad, ex Liverpool and Scotland midfielder Don Hutchison.

Max (22) has recently come on board at Finn Harps and he admits questions about his father’s career are often the ice breaker whenever he comes through a new dressing room door. 

Don Hutchison enjoyed a brilliant Premier League career where he also lined out for Sunderland, West Ham and Everton. And, in 1999, Hutchison famously netted the winning goal at Wembley as Scotland defeated England 1-0 in a Euro 2000 play-off encounter. 

Max isn’t the first son of a famous father that’s tried to forge his own path in the professional ranks. But, he explains, it’s not any kind of pressurised shadow that hangs over him. 

“My dad’s career has obviously been impressive,” he told DonegalLive. “I guess people still remember his playing days and that goal against England, it’s kind of a record. I think t’s the last goal scored for Scotland against England at the old Wembley, so it’s a proud one.

“He’s always been someone I’ve looked up to. And if I have questions or need some guidance he’s always there. He has that experience and it’s great to call upon that if or when I need it”. 

Hutchison - who previously had spells with Motherwell in Scotland as well as Waterford and Larne FC - can play in either midfield or defence. 

And it was his 23rd minute goal last Friday night, away to Kilbarrack United in the FAI Cup, that helped progress Dave Rogers’ team through to the next round. 

He’s still getting used to his new surroundings but Hutchison says his initial impressions and experiences of Donegal are really good. 

“I’ve managed to have a little look around Donegal. The scenery, the countryside and the people, it’s really impressive. I’ve got to see a few beaches as well but it’s still all very new to me but I’m enjoying it”.

Having taken four points from a possible six in their last two outings, including a 4-3 home win against third placed Cobh Ramblers, a rejuvenated Harps now sit on 25 points from 23 games. 

They might well still occupy the second from bottom spot in the table, but they are now just five points off fifth and a play-off spot.  

Dave Rogers has gone out in recent weeks and added some real quality and, perhaps more importantly, steal. And in the rough and tumble of the First Division that little bit of added muscle through the lines is having a really positive effect. 

“The squad depth now, it’s great,” Hutchison explained. “For the remainder of the season, it’s exciting. The past three games, two wins and one draw, it hints we’re moving in the right direction. I think anything is possible given that things immediately above us is still so tight.

“The momentum we’re taking into Kerry - we hope to get the three points and take them back up the road. We definitely should be aiming for that top five now. But, like I said, we have to look to really push things on now with that bit of positivity the last few games has brought”.