ANDY RYAN has had to be patient waiting for his chance to shine and he hopes he’s given his manager a selection headache.

The 23-year-old striker admitted he’s endured a frustrating time sitting on the sidelines since his August move from Airdrieonians but says he’s itching to be handed a run in the Pars line-up.

Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Morton – in which he netted his second goal in as many games, having scored from the bench against Queen’s Park – was just his third start for Dunfermline and his first on league duty.

Despite that, he’s now hit four goals in Athletic colours and his promising display against the Cappielow men drew praise from boss Allan Johnston.

Speaking to Press Sport after the game, Ryan said: “It’s been frustrating for me. Any player wants to play games of football and I’ve been sitting there patiently, working hard in training waiting for my chance.

“I think when you do get it, you have to be working hard in training and keeping your fitness levels up because you’ve got to be ready for when the manager needs you.

“I thought I did OK and it was good to get a goal but all I can do when I play is do my best, try to find the back of the net and give the manager something to think about.

“Come Saturday, I hope I’ve given him that when he’s picking the team.”

Sitting on the bench isn’t something Ryan is used to, having played 41 times while on his way to an impressive 27-goal haul with the League One Diamonds last season, a record that persuaded the Pars to splash a bit of cash to sign him.

With the likes of Nicky Clark, Declan McManus and Callum Smith also vying for places, he remained philosophical, continuing: “I’m coming off the back of a good season last year where I was used to playing every week but when you come to a new team with a settled 11 if you like, you just have to be patient and that, when you get your chance, make sure you take it.

“All you can do is give the manager a headache. As a s striker, you’re judged on goals so it’s good to score, but the result was frustrating.

“We played well in spells but were a bit sloppy and slack.

“But it’s still early doors yet so we’re just trying to go out every week, pick up three points and see where we end up.”