Tuesday evening saw Dartford host Braintree Town at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Maxwell Statham featured in our matchday programme that day. For those who missed that feature, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Since his arrival last season, Maxwell Statham has become a vital part of the Dartford defence under Alan Dowson. And, despite suffering a few injury set-backs, the 23-year-old has settled into the backline once again.
So far, Maxwell has made ten appearances for the Darts, and has contributed at the other end of the pitch with two league goals. And, the timing of our discussion finds him in good spirits…
“I’m doing really well thanks Chris. Life is good. I’m back, I’m fit, and I’m playing again, so that’s a plus as well!”
So, why did the defender sign up for a second consecutive campaign at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park?
“I signed for Dartford again this season because, I really enjoyed my football here last year. We were unlucky not to go all the way and get promoted in the play-offs… So, myself and all the players want to try and achieve that this season!”
With aspirations on the pitch perfectly clear, Maxwell also has his own ambitions away from the sport. He’s still running his own business of selling vintage clothes, which is going very well at the moment, “…it keeps me very busy, as I’m always trying to improve and scale it Chris.”
So, with his business and football taking up a majority of his time, does Maxwell actually have any time to focus on himself and, in particular, his fitness and health?
“I have a pretty good balance with football and the running of my business. I usually get everything I need to get done during the day, and then train in the afternoon/evening, which works well me for me. I enjoy it.”
He continues, “I like to keep on top of my diet, making sure I’m eating the correct foods as much as possible. However, I do like to have a cheat day at the weekend after a game. I’m also in the gym a lot. I either work on weights, training with my personal trainer, and then work on my recovery and prehab.”
Maxwell’s organisation and self-discipline is certainly paying dividends, as his performances on the pitch can attest. Does he have any words for the Dartford faithful?
“I do Chris, yes. Thank you for all your support, both home and away this season. Let’s continue that and climb up the table!”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
I don’t have any superstitions.
Best Memory?
My best footballing memory was the double win against Ebbsfleet last season during the Christmas and New Year period.
Biggest Influence In Your Career?
The biggest influence on my career is my dad. He comes to every game with my younger brother, and he’s always pushing me and helping me improve.
Best Goal Scored?
My best and favourite goal I’ve scored was against Welling United last season in the 5-1 win.
Most Under-Rated Player You’ve Played With?
The most underrated player I’ve played with is Chi Ezennolim. We played together at Welling United a few seasons ago and are now really good friends with each other! He got a move to Maidstone United this year, and I have no doubt he’ll be playing higher in the near future.
Biggest Influence In The Dressing Room?
The biggest influence in the dressing room is Charlie Sheringham. He’s got a lot of experience, which helps out a lot on the pitch and in the dressing room.
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, I’d have Joshua Oluwayemi (at Chelmsford City). My defender would be Max Kilman (at Wolves). The midfielders would be Bukayo Saka (at Arsenal) and Harvey Elliott (at Liverpool), and I’d have Armando Broja (at Chelsea) in attack.
By Chris Palmer