Forward who can play across the front, toured the world of non-league before getting picked up by Forest in late 2007
A right-winger who can also operate on the left or off of the main striker, McCleary's career began with non-league Oxford City, then neighbouring United, but he was released without getting his chance in the U’s first team.
Dropping into non-league with Bromley, he then scored 11 goals from the wide positions as the club hit the top of the Ryman League, earning himself a trial at Forest at Christmas 2007.
Determined to take his chance, he impressed with his trickery and pace, prompting boss Colin Calderwood to hand him a first-team debut against Carlisle in March 2008 and he went on to play a further seven games as Forest won promotion.