Yesterday saw Dartford entertain Chatham Town at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Samir Carruthers featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Experienced midfielder, Samir Carruthers’ return to Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park was celebrated by many during the off-season. Initially arriving on loan from Hemel Hempstead Town in March 2022, his performances proved vital to that season’s promotion challenge. So much so, that he signed permanently the following season and went on to score ten league goals in 39 appearances (34 starts) in all competitions, before moving on to Chelmsford City.
After a year in Essex, the 31-year-old has now returned to Kent and is in good spirits at the time of our chat on WhatsApp…
“I’m okay thanks Chris. Life has been good, and I’m excited to be back here at Dartford. Also, we’re expecting our first child, so really exciting times ahead.”
Having spent a season with the promotion-chasing Clarets, why did Samir decide to drop down a level to play in the Isthmian Premier League with Dartford?
“I’ve always loved Dartford FC and all the people associated with the club. I’ve had amazing times here, despite the two disappointing ends to my campaigns here… both of which ended in defeat on penalties. So, I want to help bring the good times back to the club, and help bring it back into the National League South, where it belongs.”
Unfortunately, Samir picked up an injury soon after his arrival, which has kept him out of pre-season and the opening league fixtures. Yet, he remains undeterred and excited to return to action in Dartford colours…
“Yeah, I can’t wait to get back out there Chris. I can’t wait to put the number four shirt back on and be back in the stadium. I just hope to produce as much as I did when I was here before.”
He continues, “I’m hoping to stay as fit and healthy for as long as possible. I still believe that I have plenty more years left in the tank, and I believe I can be successful here at Dartford. I hope to remain here for plenty of years to come, and I believe we can be successful together.”
It’s no secret that some players begin to wind down once they pass the age of thirty, while many others hit their prime playing years. Samir is 31 and, injury aside, seems to fit in the latter category of the experienced footballer. But, how does the midfielder keep himself sharp and fit?
“Luckily, my job is a really active one Chris! So, I manage to stay active all the time, maybe sometimes a bit too much… HaHaHaHa!
“I normally try to continue playing even in the off-season with my coaching at the Pro Direct Academy. I’ll get involved with them during training, and I also do my own training in the gym. As for the nutrition side of things, I leave this to my Mrs, as whatever she puts on the table I’ll eat… HaHaHaHa! But, we do try to keep it as healthy as possible… normally.”
Samir works for a college football programme called Pro Direct. He teaches and coaches boys as much as he can, and also passes on the knowledge that he has been blessed with. Dartford youngster, Gabe Campbell, is one of these players.
It’s certainly rewarding to see that Samir is using his knowledge and abilities to give something back to the beautiful game. Afterall, he started his footballing life in an academy too…
“Yes, I started at Cambridge United, before moving to Arsenal. I then went to Aston Villa, where I did my scholarship. I went on to earn a professional contract with Villa and managed to break into their First Team.”
Does he think football academies are important for aspiring young players?
“I’d say that it certainly helped me, as I was always training and learning at such a high level standard, which would go on to help me in my football career. However, whilst being in an academy does help with your development in football, that doesn’t mean it’s necessary to be at an academy in order to become a footballer.”
Is Samir happy with how his career has panned out so far? Would he change anything?
“I always wanted to be a professional footballer Chris, right from the age of 8-9. I’m extremely fortunate to have made it professionally, and to have many promotions on my CV. So I’d say that, yes I’m happy when I look back on my career. I’ve done things that many people can only dream of, so I’m happy with how it’s turned out.
“Of course, there are things that I could and should of done better, but I don’t really get down about things like that. You’ve always got to look ahead and continue becoming a better version of yourself, both on and off the pitch.”
That’s Samir Carruthers in a nutshell, an honest, yet humble hard-working man who is just itching to get back on the pitch to play his game. And, the Dartford supporters are itching to see him back in black and white too! Does he have any words for them?
“I do Chris, yes. Firstly, I’d just like to say thank you so much for accepting me back at the club. I know it may have seemed a strange decision for me to leave in the first place, but circumstances always change. I’m so happy to be back, and I want to help bring the smiles back to your faces. I want us to have the best season ahead, with the best outcome. Hopefully, I’ll be back on the pitch soon.”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
I don’t really have superstitions to be honest, I just believe in working hard and (hopefully) my talent comes out to full effect.
Favourite Food?
Sushi.
Favourite Drink?
A nice glass of red wine at home after match day with my dinner with the family.
TV Series or Film?
TV series all day. I’m an anime fan… yes I know, strange, but I always have been. I do love going to the cinema to watch films though.
Music or Podcast?
Music, I love my country music.
Sporting Hero?
Zinedine Zidane has always been my sporting hero.
Non-Sporting Hero?
My mother is my rock. She’s always been there for me, and my dad as well, who is no longer with us.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
Tennis, UFC, and Olympics. I always watch all the events when it’s on.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
There’s a few. Probably the older boys at the moment, but I know the young boys will start chirping up soon.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus) in goal; then Roberto Carlos (Real Madrid) and Cafu (AC Milan) can chill at the back! Me and Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid) in midfield, then I’ll stick Lionel Messi (Barcelona) up top. HaHaHaHa! Nah, take me out mate and stick Andres Iniesta (Barcelona) in there!
By Chris Palmer