JACK Iredale says he was so eager to impress new Morton manager Jonatan Johansson on Saturday he played through the pain barrier.

The Australian was filling in at left midfield on Saturday against Dunfermline, one of many positions the 22-year-old can play in.

It was his first start under the new boss, but he fell awkwardly during a tackle just two minutes in.

After having his hand looked at by first team physio Alyson Field, he was sent to hospital on Saturday with a suspected fracture.

But after multiple X-rays it was confirmed there was no break.

Iredale said it was agony once the adrenaline had worn off at half-time — but he still wanted to play on.

He told the Tele: “It was two minutes in and it felt awful. 

“I apparently went completely pale.

“I wanted to play on but the gaffer said I had to go to hospital.

“I got an opportunity at left-mid that I was excited about. I enjoy playing there but that was the main reason why I wasn’t coming off, it was my first chance to impress the new manager and I felt if it was just my hand I could try and get to half-time.

“I could hardly concentrate in the game at some points though as the pain was awful.”

Iredale, who has been playing mainly as a left-back since joining the club last season, was originally signed as a centre-back.

After talks with the manager, the Greenock-born Australian hopes his versatility will stand him in good stead for the season, rather than be a hindrance on his progression.

He added: “The gaffer has been really good. He’s a very approachable guy, I’ve already gone and had a chat with him about things and he was easy to talk to.

“He’s a young manager so he’s got the modern coaching approach which I enjoy, he wants me to be brave on the ball and wants to play football, it’s been a good few weeks so far.

“I was trying to figure out myself where my best position is and he says I’ve got the right attributes to be a centre-half.

“That’s where I’ve been training at since he came in, but with the game plan on Saturday I felt like I could do a job for him at left-mid.

“It’s a weird one, I’ve played five or six different positions so far this season and they’re all positions that I’m comfortable in.

“I’m still trying to figure out where I’d be better and where I’m best for the team. 

“I’m just happy playing at this stage.

“It’s a good thing and I’ve got to try and make it into a positive thing rather than letting it be a burden.”