Colin Marshall is desperate to swap life on a South Pacific paradise island for the hard grind of a season in Scotland.
The midfielder hopes his globetrotting days are over after his most-recent adventure ended with a Champions League Final!
Since leaving Dundee eight years ago, Marshall has played in Spain, Iceland, Japan and, most recently, Vanuatu.
The 29-year-old spent three months with Amicale FC and was part of the side that narrowly lost to Auckland City in the Oceania Football Confederation Champions League Final.
He said: “I’d been out for a little while with a knee injury and was looking to get playing again. Through Steven Robb, a former team-mate at Dundee, an Australian fitness coach got in touch and asked if I fancied playing in Vanuatu.
“I must admit I knew nothing about the country and had to look it up on the internet. The wages weren’t great but I saw it as an opportunity to experience a new part of the world and get some fitness.
“I found players who had really good technical ability, although tactically they still have some progress to make. The pitches could be quite challenging because the climate moves from very wet to exceptionally hot.
“We came agonisingly close to winning the OFC Champions League Final against Auckland City. The first leg finished 1-1 and unfortunately I missed a penalty before there had been any scoring in the second match.
“We lost that game 2-1 but it was a great performance for a small club. Winning would have meant qualifying for the World Club Cup and playing teams like Real Madrid.”
Colin arrived back in Scotland last month, fully fit and ready for the next stage of his career.
The former Aston Villa FA Youth Cup winner went on: “Playing in different countries has made me a better player and a better person.
“When I was younger I had a bad attitude at times but that’s all behind me. I’ve made a few mistakes but I feel I’ve now served my time in football and I’ve really grown up. Playing for Ossie Ardiles in Japan was incredible.
“The facilities were superb and playing for a World Cup winner in front of big crowds was a great education. I played at right back sometimes, so it added a bit of versatility to my game.
“I feel I’ve still got plenty of time to make my mark on football in Scotland and I’m hoping a club will give me the chance to take part in pre-season training.
“It wouldn’t cost them anything and they’ll be getting someone hungry to make up for lost time.”
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