Non-League and Academy football writer

Daniel Alawode recently signed for step 6 Thurlow Nunn League First Division South side FC Baresi. A talented and commanding young central-defender, I recently did a short interview with Daniel.

 Could you talk me through a bit about your background in football?

Daniel: I played for London Samurai Rovers for a while. I also did a short stint at Spartans Youth last season, before then going to Nottsborough, who are a really good club, with good people. Prior to that I also played for Kensington Dragons, where people like Cecil, Mark and Russell really helped me.

What has been your standout moment in non-League football, so far?

Daniel: It has to be that play-off run that we went on at London Samurai Rovers, in my first season at the club. The vibe in the changing room, the training sessions, it was all really good. There were a number of former professional footballers in that team, and being part of a team with a very good defensive record that season, was a great moment for myself.

What are some of your hopes for this season with FC Baresi?

Daniel: What really made me want to want to join FC Baresi was the vision at the club. I want to play proper football, on the floor, as that is what I’ve grown up playing. And, I really just want to find my confidence and passion in football again, and joining FC Baresi I can see that definitely happening. So I’m obviously aiming for us to win promotion this season, but also as a defender, I’m also focusing on how many clean-sheets we can get as a team. You’ve got to do the hard work first in football, and I want to lead from defence on the pitch, and take the confidence that the coaches give to me.