EX-GAWLER Eagle Riley McGree opened his account for Birmingham City on the weekend after scoring in the second minute of his very first start with the English second division club.

After being purchased by Major League Soccer expansion side Charlotte FC, the club loaned him to Birmingham City since its own side will not take the pitch for the first time until 2022.

McGree scored with his first touch after slamming home a loose ball in the penalty area 90 seconds into the match, and said after the game that scoring goals was his role in the side.

“Personally I am very delighted,” McGree told Birmingham Live.

“My role was an advanced midfielder – so to get on the ball, score goals, and switch the play wherever I can.

“It was a big step up – I’m slowly getting used to it but it’s still going to take me some time.”

Birmingham City manager Aitor Karanka said he was not surprised with McGree’s performance after seeing him on the training track.

“He has settled in really well – the others have taken to him really well because everybody can see how good he is,” he told Birmingham Live.

“Preston is a tough team to play against, but I think he took his opportunity nicely.”

McGree will be hoping to make an impact in the near future to help Birmingham City out of the mid-table, as it currently sits 11th on the ladder a quarter of the way through the season.