An exclusive with Wimbledon's new centre-back
Kevin Feely never had far to turn for advice about joining AFC Wimbledon because the towering defender shares a house with Michael Smith.
The talented duo played in the same team for Charlton Under-21s last season and they forged a close friendship during that time.
Speaking to Rob Cornell after his first training session since joining on loan from Charlton, Kevin told Dons Player that he knows a lot about AFC Wimbledon already.
“I live in the same place as Michael so I have a fair idea about all the players here,” Kevin said. “That makes it a lot easier coming to Wimbledon. Chris Powell has also spoken to me about the move and I know what the back four is like. Andy Frampton and Alan Bennett have been really solid all season, but leading up to Christmas there are a lot of games. If they get injuries or knocks then I may be able to figure as cover for them. Hopefully, I can get a few games because that’s what I need to make the next step.
“I played two seasons at Bohemians in Ireland and there was a bit of interest in me from English clubs last year. I decided that Charlton was the best move for me and I had a good season with the Under-21s because we won virtually every competition that we entered. Coming into this season I wanted to get league experience and that is the main reason that I have been looking for a loan move. I am lucky that AFC Wimbledon came in for me and I am looking to make a good impression during the time that I’m here.”
Michael Smith described Kevin’s style of play as that of “a typical, old-school centre-back”, though he did add that his friend can play a bit too.
Simon Bassey added that Wimbledon had been tracking the 21-year-old Charlton defender for a lengthy period of time.
“With a big month coming up we just felt that we needed a bit of cover at centre-back,” he said. “I watched Kevin five or six times last season and I was very impressed on every occasion. He helped Charlton Under-21s to win a national competition last season. He is strong, left-footed and attacks the ball in both boxes. He was quite a coveted player last year and I think he will be a great addition.”
Dons Player subscribers can now watch video interviews with Kevin Feely, Michael Smith and Simon Bassey.