Upcoming MatchDartford V Cray Valley/November 2, 2024/Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park

DARTFORD FC | IN CONVERSATION WITH MANNY ADEBOWALE

Last weekend’s fixture against Taunton Town saw Manny Adebowale feature in our Matchday Programme. For those who missed it, here is the full article:

SECTION ONE

Manny Adebowale arrived at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park last season, but only made the one solitary appearance for the Darts.

Despite that statistic, the 26-year-old Central Defender re-signed for another campaign in Kent. He has made seven appearances this term, four of them starts, and even scored his first goal for the club in the recent Kent Senior Cup tie against Sevenoaks Town.

Even though appearances have been scarce, the defender has at least been named on the substitutes bench in every fixture under the leadership of interim boss Tony Burman. And, the proud Christian is in good spirits at the time of our discussion…

“I am good thank you Chris. I’m feeling blessed, and am looking forward to the rest of this new year.”

It’s fair to say that many in this sport wouldn’t hang around if opportunities to play weren’t presenting themselves. Yet, Manny isn’t one of them. He confesses that he remained with the club because, “Dartford is a big club in this league. It’s in a great location and has a great setup, with even better fans.”

Aside from his faith in God, football is at the heart of Manny. He admits that he doesn’t really have anything of interest outside of the beautiful game at the moment, but is thinking of what things can interest him outside of the sport.

With that and the fact that he’s not working at the moment, Manny finds it rather easy to keep on top of his fitness, nutrition, and general wellbeing…

“Yes, it’s not that hard at all Chris! I do a lot of training outside of football with a company called FSCR, which specialises in looking after footballers and their health.”

Dartford’s recent struggles aren’t lost on anyone at the moment, especially the players, and Manny is no different. However, he possess an air of positivity and calmness, as well as belief in the squad. And as our conversation comes to an end, he has a few words for the Dartford faithful…

“Please be patient with us. We will get it together soon.”

He’s right, patience is certainly needed, as is support. Who knows, perhaps Manny will become a more prominent (and permanent) part of the squad and its climb back up the National League South table.

SECTION TWO

Faith or Superstition?

Faith. I am a Christian, and I believe in God and Jesus Christ.

Best Memory?

My EFL League 2 debut for Crawley Town against Salford. I remember the whole of the Class of ‘92 were there.

Biggest Influence In Your Career?

My family. They have always been supportive and helped me on my journey.

Best Goal Scored?

None! HaHaHaHa! That’s something I need to work on! (Manny rectified this statistic by scoring his first goal for Dartford in the recent Kent Senior Cup tie against Sevenoaks Town.)

Most Underrated Player You’ve Played With?

Nathan Ferguson, who plays at Wealdstone. I’ve always thought he could play much higher.

Biggest Influence In The Dressing Room?

Luke Coulson. He’s a good captain. He keeps the changing room in good vibes and leads by example on pitch.

If you were to be involved with a five-a-side tournament, and had to select the best players you have played against, which five players would you choose?

I’ll have Aaron Ramsdale (at Arsenal) in goal, with Ezri Konsa (at Aston Villa) in defence. The midfield would be Nathan Ferguson (at Wealdstone) and Jack Wilshire (Retired, formerly at Arsenal), and I’ll have Tarryn Allarakhia (at Wealdstone) up front.

By Chris Palmer