Interview with Matthew Briggs
The newest prospect from the Fulham Academy talks about his debut for Fulham, his idols and representing England, exclusively in HalfTime!!
What was it like making your debut for the First Team Squad at the end of last season?
It was an amazing experience for me and one I will never forget, I still remember how excited I was. I remember my Mum getting off the phone having spoken to John Murtough [Head of Youth] and he was saying that I was to train with the First Team on Thursday and Friday ahead of the game. Even then, though, I still had no idea that I would be part of the squad. Just to be included in the 16 man squad was special but when the manager turned to me and said I was going on it was something else!
Did you ever think that it would come so quickly?
I am still learning my trade in the Academy so of course I could never have expected it to come round so quickly, but we're young players aspiring to get into the First Team so if the call comes earlier than you might expect, you just need to be ready.
What were the nerves like?
I was really nervous, but the manager and the other players were all encouraging me and once you're out on the pitch you just play, you don't really seem to have time for nerves.
You played in midfield as well, not your usual position?
When the manager said I was going to be going on in central midfield I was a bit worried because it isn't my regular position. But as soon as I started to get a few touches of the ball it went ok and playing alongside the sort of players we have here it makes it a lot easier.
When you were growing up, who had the biggest influence on your career and why?
My Mum without any doubt. She did everything to help me with my football, whether it meant driving me somewhere, picking me up or just standing in the rain for 90 minutes, she would do it and I appreciate what she did so much.
As a youngster which players in world football did you like and model your game on?
I think as an attacking left sided defender I would have to go forAshley Cole. He is everything I admire in terms of football, good defensively, quick and always looking for the next opportunity to get forward and attack.
Were you always a defender?
I started off as an attacking midfielder and gradually worked my way back in to defence. I now play central defence for the academy but I also like playing on the left side of defence as well.
Do you seek advice from any of the senior players and if so who?
I haven't really looked to seek advice from any of the players but when I train I am always watching how they play, especially the defenders and picking up tips from them. When I made my debut they all talked to me and made sure I was doing things right and encouraging me all the time which helped.
What do you think is the most important thing for young footballers to remember if they want to do well?
I think the most important thing any young, aspiring footballer can remember is to never give up. No matter what the circumstances, whether you have a bad game or perhaps you might get released by another club, if you keep working hard and want it enough you will always get your chance to show people what you can do.
You have played for England a few times, what was that like?
It is one of the proudest things you can do as a footballer. The style of play is different from what I am used to here, if anything it is a little bit slower. You get to go to different places around the world which is a great experience but also very tiring as well!