AFC Totton
New signing Liam Gilbert wants to “prove a point” as he hopes to help a young Stags squad climb the league and fight off relegation.
The 24 year old midfielder arrives at the Testwood Stadium on a short term deal from Horndean in the Wessex League, after returning from a four year stint in America both coaching and playing the game, last September.
He impressed Stags Manager Steve Riley in Saturday’s defeat to Hemel Hempstead, Gilbert is relishing his opportunity at playing a higher level of football with the Stags.
“I am really happy coming to Totton and looking forward to enjoying my football,” he explained. “I want to get back out there and prove a point.”
Gilbert comes in to the fold at a pivotal point of the season with Totton looking to mount a charge towards safety, and the former Horndean player can’t wait to get into the thick of it.
“They are a really nice bunch of people around the club. I am really excited about the challenge and to be a part of it.”
At 24, Gilbert comes to the club in the unusual position of being one of the elder statesmen of the group but former Wessex League player is sure this won’t be a hindrance.
“It was a bit of a shock when they said on Saturday I was one of the oldest, but I want to bring a positive spirit to the side. I’d like to think I can help improve the side and there is still an outside chance we can climb the league. Who knows what could happen.”
Outside of the Testwood Stadium, Gilbert is a coach at two of Eastleigh’s academy and he is more than prepared to help some of the young squad members on the pitch.
“I am going to try and bring some of my leadership qualities to the field and help some the youngsters,” he said. “I have no problem in bringing some bite and fight to the game.”
It was something that was noticeable on Saturday, with Riley describing him as tenacious and a great tackler.
Whilst playing in America, he won an All American award, a highly regarded achievement in the States and was scouted by MLS franchises but injury scuppered his chances.
Now back in England, Gilbert is looking to impress and wants to show the Stags what is in his locker and on the evidence of his first game, he could bring something valuable to their season.
