It's been a dream Monday for factory worker and new Spireite signing Lee

Lee Shaw woke up and went to work today like any normal day, except today wasn't like any other in the 24-year-old's life.
Lee Shaw with new manager Martin Allen and assistant manager Adrian Whitbread (Pic: Tina Jenner)Lee Shaw with new manager Martin Allen and assistant manager Adrian Whitbread (Pic: Tina Jenner)
Lee Shaw with new manager Martin Allen and assistant manager Adrian Whitbread (Pic: Tina Jenner)

The 24-year-old part-time footballer wasn’t heading to the packaging factory to complete a shift, he was going to tell his boss he was leaving.

A new job opportunity has presented itself and it’s the one he’s been dreaming of since he was little.

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Chesterfield FC’s new striker said: “I played in the United Counties League for Harrowby United, then I was at Grantham for three years and now I’m here.

“This is my first full-time one.

“I handed in my notice (at the factory) first thing this morning.

“It’s a dream come true to be honest with you.

“It was my dream to be a professional footballer and I can’t wait to repay the manager for the opportunity.”

Shaw’s prolific goalscoring exploits in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier have earned him a first ever shot at professional football.

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Having moved to the Gingerbreads from Harrowby, he scored 11, 28 and 33 goals in his three seasons at South Kesteven Sports Stadium.

With an agent representing him, he was hot property this summer.

Had Martin Allen not picked up the phone to the frontman, someone else probably would have.

He’s been on trial with League Two Lincoln City and by all accounts, did his chances of making it as Football League player no harm.

According to Allen, the Imps wanted him.

But it was the Spireites who won his signature.

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“I went to Lincoln for a couple of weeks and it was a great experience, but when Martin rang me and told me everything, I didn’t need time to decide,” said the forward.

“It’s a massive club with big history and as soon as the manager rang I made the decision there and then.

“It was a no brainer.”

Allen has been looking for a striker to run beyond defences and stretch the play, so Shaw’s description of his own game tells its own story about why he’s arrived at the Proact.

“I’m the kind of striker that likes to get in behind, run the channels, have a run at the defender.

“I can finish too.”

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Town fans will get their first look at the new boy tomorrow night at Gainsborough Trinity, later on in the game at least.

Shaw will start on the bench and play for around 30 minutes.

He’s excited to make his introductions to fans and colleagues alike.

“I’m hoping to get on the pitch.

“They’ll all be new faces, I’ve not met any of them (team-mates) yet.

“I can’t wait to get going.”