Saturday saw Dartford take on Cheshunt at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to Dartford FC midfielder Sammie McLeod, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Sammie McLeod arrived at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park during the off-season. But, having picked up an injury during pre-season, the midfielder has yet to make a league appearance for Ady Pennock’s Dartford side.
Since beginning his football career with Maidstone United’s U19 team, Sammie soon joined the U18s of Leicester City, before signing for Maldon & Tiptree in July 2018. He then went on to represent Colchester United’s U23 side, before moving on to Concord Rangers, Portadown, Lewes, Thor Akureyri (Iceland), Worthing, Bognor Regis Town, and Tunbridge Wells.
He then left the Culverden Stadium to sign for nearby Sevenoaks Town last season, before becoming a Dart after one campaign with The Oaks.
Despite being sidelined, the 25-year-old Central Midfielder is in good spirits and is working hard to get back playing on the pitch. And, he’s clearly happy to be here:
“Dartford’s a massive club with ambitions to climb the leagues. Ady was also a massive part of me coming here. I really like the way he works. He’s a top bloke and is eager to win.”
It’s no secret to anyone that Ady’s outfit has made a slow start to the season, with seven points from the opening seven league games. However, the Darts have only lost twice (both on the road), and are currently on an unbeaten run of four league games. And, despite various squad injuries and suspensions hindering the team’s progress, everyone inside the dressing room expects good things to come the further into the campaign we travel. And Sammie’s no different:
“The end goal is promotion, and I feel like we’ve got a good chance. If we can keep the bulk of the squad fit, we’ll be right up there come the end of the season.”
The players’ fitness is obviously a key to the team’s chances of success. But, let’s be honest, Ady has worked wonders by keeping the majority of the squad together for a second consecutive season, and has added some excellent and exciting players to his armoury. What does Sammie bring to the table?
“My favourite position is Central Midfield. I think I’m quite old-fashioned in a way. I do the ugly stuff well… covering every blade of grass, giving one hundred percent in every game, and getting stuck in. I bring additional energy and a winning mentality to the team, and I like to simplify the game and break up play. However, my speed could be considered as a weakness… I wouldn’t say I’m rapid!”
He may not consider himself to be the quickest of footballers, but what he does bring to the team is a hard work ethic and desire to win. And he does his best to do extra fitness-work whenever away from the sport. That’s his main plan…
“I’m just looking to work hard here and take each season as it comes, but injuries have been a killer! Having said that though, I have built up a lot of resilience along the way too.”
He continues, “Knowing that a footballer’s career is short is another motivating factor for me. I’m aware of how short our playing careers are, so I try to make the most of every single game and situation. It’s a funny old game. One moment you’re on top of the world, the next you’re fighting for your life! I try to not get too high or too low… that would be my advice to anyone wanting to become a footballer.”
He has some more wisdom to share with any future football players reading this, but we’ll return to that subject shortly.
As has been well documented at this level before, players have to hold down a job outside of the beautiful game as well as prepare for and play at least once a week, if not twice. Whilst Sammie’s pre-game preparations can differ, he does like to chill out and go for a walk during his down-time. However, there are things that he can sometimes struggle with when it comes to juggling the work and football:
“It’s tough to be honest. I feel drained after a day’s work, but I have no problem getting up for a game. It’s just the in-between bit that can get tough. I just love winning and competing. The excitement of going to a horrible ground on a wet Tuesday night and getting three points is right up there for me!”
Having received the advice of, “play to your strengths” once before, Sammie’s advice to anyone looking to begin a career at this level of football is equally as wise:
“Don’t give up. It’s a long journey. Never get too high, never get too low.”
Those words can easily sum up Sammie McLeod the football player. He’s a man who has built up resilience over the years, despite suffering many setbacks. Let’s hope that his latest injury is his last, and that he can show everyone what he’s capable of in a Dartford FC shirt for the remainder of the season and beyond.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I touch every side of my legs before coming onto the pitch.
Favourite footballer?
Frank Lampard.
Favourite football team?
Chelsea.
Favourite football moment?
Chelsea winning the Champions League in 2012.
Biggest role model?
N/A.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Folkestone.
Who are your biggest supporters?
My family.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I won a table tennis tournament with Riyad Mahrez.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Cricket or golf — I’m quite handy at both of them.
Who will win the Premier League this season?
Chelsea.
