Dartford Academy product Sam Odaudu happy to learn on the job as he transforms from central midfielder to left-back

By Katie Humphris

Sam Odaudu has revealed he’s never played left-back before this season.

The Academy graduate has burst into the Dartford first team - even though it’s the first year of learning a new position.

“I’m naturally a centre-midfielder,” Odaudu said. “But then the gaffer put me to left-back and I’ve been playing well there ever since, so I don’t mind.

“This is my first proper season at left-back, so I’m trying to learn every game.

“Obviously there have been certain games where I’ll learn more because of certain positioning but it will come with games and learning on the job.

“It’s strange because it’s about getting results and then it’s hard to balance the learning and results but the gaffer has shown faith in me.”

Odaudu is clearly a quick learner, though, and believes the biggest lesson so far has been to improve his communication.

“My body positioning and just being in line with the back line and constantly communicating with them,” replied Odaudu when asked about his learning experiences.

“It’s very important for us to be as one going higher or dropping deep, so I would say the communication puts us in good stead.

“I can see myself going forward as a left-back. I’ve done quite well and there is still a lot of room to improve but I’m doing all right.

“I have to stay solid defensively and once the opportunities come going forward I can show more of what I can do.

“Tom Bonner gets you through the game, always talking, he always stays with you. He’s solid and keeps himself fit, so that’s something [to aspire to]. I’ll try and play for as long as I can.”

Odaudu still attends Academy training, and has found a role mentoring his former team-mates.

“[Former manager] Tony Burman has been an influence, especially