David Fitzpatrick signs pro forms at AFC Wimbledon
Alan Reeves has swooped to make his second signing for the Under-21s by bringing in former QPR winger David Fitzpatrick.
The 19-year-old, who is pictured with Alan above after playing in yesterday’s 1-0 Premier League Cup win against AFC Bournemouth, has signed professional forms after impressing during a three-week trial spell.
Speaking during a video interview for Dons Player, Under-21s coach Alan Reeves said: “Technically David is very good and he did really well in the match at Leyton Orient and in today’s game. He is a young player who I want to work with every day. You know when a young player is listening to you or not and David is keen to learn. There are things that myself and the manager have identified that he needs to work on, but the attributes he has got are very promising.
“It’s a second chance for players like David. They know that other lads have been given first-team opportunities recently and if the manager sees them performing consistently then they may also get a chance.”
Alan Reeves has had over 30 trialists in since he took over as Under-21 coach in the summer with George Pilbeam as his only previous signing.
Fitzpatrick, who was brought up in Surbiton and attended Coombe Boys’ School in New Malden, knows all about the AFC Wimbledon story – and he’s determined to reignite his career.
Speaking during an interview with Rob Cornell for Dons Player, Fitzpatrick said: “I’ve known about this club for years as I’m a local lad. I’ve seen AFC Wimbledon progress from a lower level and it’s a club where I feel welcome. At QPR there was a lot of competition and I felt there were a few barriers, but I’ve learned from my experience there.
“I really want to push on again at AFC Wimbledon. I’m not deluded and I know I’ve got things to work on in my game. But Alan Reeves is great as a coach and he’s given me a chance to express myself. I try to bring some positivity on the wing and get at the full-back whenever I can. Hopefully, with the help of the manager I can get more assists and goals into my game.”
Dons Player subscribers can now watch video interviews with Alan Reeves and David Fitzpatrick on our premium channel.