Tuesday evening saw Dartford host Weston-Super-Mare at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Baris Altintop featured in our matchday programme that day. For those who missed that feature, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Baris Altintop has become an important part of the Dartford backline this season. Since his arrival, the versatile defender has made fifteen appearances and even chipped in with a goal (in the 2-1 reverse against Slough Town in September).
At the time of our discussion, the 23-year-old is enjoying life and time with his family… “I’m doing really well thanks Chris. I’ve been spending time with family, nephews, and nieces, as it’s the school holidays at the moment.”
Unlike some of his teammates, Baris has the benefit of not working outside of the sport. Therefore, he’s able to focus on himself and his game, as well as his family, without the distraction of working life. He elaborates…
“Football is my priority Chris, as I don’t actually work outside of the game. So, when I’m not playing, I’m in the gym, swimming, doing recovery sessions, weights, and making sure that I’m ready for matchdays.”
How does he balance his fitness levels with his nutrition though? “Funnily enough, my older brother is very good with this. He helps me with diet plans and general wellbeing. I’ve also got a family around me all of the time, so I’m always being well looked after.”
It’s clear that this young defender is fully focused on his fitness and game. With the recent injury to teammate Tommy Block, Baris has been covering in the right-back position for Alan Dowson, and his performances have been excellent. He also possesses a deadly right foot, which has seen him getting in on the assists with some terrific crosses into opponents’ boxes. He’s also a good option for free-kicks, especially on the right side of the pitch.
Yet, statistics aside, he just wants to do the best for the club… “My personal ambition is to do the best I can for the team. We all want to get promoted to the National League, that’s our aim. But, I’m focusing on helping my teammates.”
Was the ambition to get promoted to the National League the reason why Baris signed for the Darts?
“I signed for the club because, it’s a really big club at this level, and one of the biggest clubs in the league. It has really good facilities, and a really good manager, as well as a great bunch of lads in the dressing room.”
And what about the fans? Does he have any words for them?
“What I’d like to say to the fans is that we’ll give everything we can as a team. Personally, I’ll give everything I can… all my passion to the club, to the fans and, hopefully, you guys will stick by us all season. Hopefully, we can do something special together, by getting promoted to the National League. You fans are a massive part of us.”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Definitely superstition. I have a picture of my nan inside a little marble cube that I bring to every game, and put above my seat/locker in the dressing room.
Best Memory?
Last season when we (Braintree) played Bath City at home. I scored a 93rd minute winner to send us into the play-offs.
Biggest Influence In Your Career?
Definitely my Mum and Dad. They’ve never missed a game since I started as a 6-year-old. They’ve always been there, always pushed me, always encouraged me, always helped me, and stuck by me.
Best Goal Scored?
At Braintree last season – at home against Dulwich Hamlet – a left-footed strike from outside the box, which went into the bottom left corner. We won 2-1 that day.
Most Under-Rated Player You’ve Played With?
Josh Barrett – attacking midfielder at King’s Lynn Town.
Most Under-Rated Player You’ve Played Against?
Brett McGavin – defensive midfielder at Torquay United.
Biggest Influence In The Dressing Room?
Alex Wall or Luke Coulson. Both are experienced players who know the game well. They’re good with other lads and help people along the way.
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?
In goal, Paul Walker (retired), when he was at AFC Sudbury. Defender has to be Carlos Edwards (Hadleigh United), when he was at Bury Town. In midfield, Brett McGavin (Torquay United), when he was at King’s Lynn Town, and Sonny Carey (Blackpool). In attack, Adebayo Akinfenwa (Faversham Town), when he was at Wycombe Wanderers.
By Chris Palmer