Garath McCleary has been heralded as an ‘example’ to everyone at the club, Wycombe boss Gareth Ainsworth has revealed.

Since arriving at Adams Park at the start of last season, the 34-year-old winger played 63 times, scored 11 goals and has provided seven assists, which included a strike and a set up in the 3-0 win over Cambridge United on March 1.

This ended his longest-barren spell of the season with a goal [13 games] and manager Gareth Ainsworth was quick to commend his performance but suggesting that ‘McCleary was outstanding and back to his best.’

The Chairboys manager continued to speak of his admiration for the winger at Thursday’s press conference as he said: “We have great mutual respect for one another and we speak on a real respectful level.

READ MORE: Wycombe's Anis Mehmeti could 'go right to the top' according to manager Gareth Ainsworth

“He’s an example to all the players on how to look after yourself and prolong your career.

"He’s kept himself ridiculously fit.

“He takes his top off often, too often for me because he looks a million dollars.”

Following his exit from Reading in the summer of 2020, the winger found himself in limbo and was desperate to get back into the game.

He wanted to join his boyhood club, Oxford United, but was told he was ‘too old’.

READ MORE: 'I certainly support Wycombe Wanderers' - Gareth Ainsworth celebrates 500 games as Chairboys boss

Since opting for the club south of the M40, he has starred under Ainsworth and the respect is mutual between the two former top-flight players.

McCleary said: “The gaffer is brilliant.

"He is definitely up there as one of the best I’ve had.

“He speaks to the boys, he is empathetic in certain situations that we’re going through behind the scenes, and he gave me a chance when many other teams didn’t.

“His man-management, for me, is definitely up there.”

READ MORE: 'A true legend and my hero' - Fans send their well wishes ahead of Gareth Ainsworth's 500th game

The 34-year-old ranks second in goals scored and assisted for the Chairboys this season, whilst Jordan Obita and Sam Vokes are the only outfielders to have featured more times than him this campaign.

Not only is he excelling in the Wycombe squad, but League One as a whole.

Ranking joint-second in expected assists per 90 in the division (0.24) - only four players across the 92 clubs produce better numbers than the winger.

In terms of carrying the ball, there is no one more proficient.

READ MORE: 'Fans should pop down' - Garath McCleary praises Beaconsfield Town for charity-focused match

He is joint-third in key pass-ending carries (21) and first in assist-ending (five).

Ainsworth added: “I definitely expected this level of production from Garath.

“I’m glad he’s delivering because players like him will make the difference.”