Dan is unlikely to forget February 2015 in a hurry
A memorable month for rising midfield talent Dan Gallagher has been rounded off by recognition from the League Football Education (LFE).
a professional contract earlier this month, has been named in “The 11”, a competition run by LFE to recognise apprentice achievements and replace the Apprentice of the Month award.signedThe 17-year-old, who
Regional LFE staff select young players from clubs around the country based on academic and football progress during the current season.
Gallagher, who has come right through the ranks at AFC Wimbledon, has been recommended as a shining example to others and Neal Ardley says he would have no qualms about pitching him in at first-team level if required.
“I’ve watched the young boys train with the first-team and they haven’t looked out of place,” said Neal. “That has come from the environment we create with young players getting to train with the first-team a lot.
“When I look at these boys in and around the first-team, Dan is certainly one of those players who I would have no hesitation in playing if there was an emergency. Dan has a fantastic attitude and any accolade he gets is thoroughly deserved. On the back of getting a professional contract, it’s been a great month for Dan.”
.You TubeIf you missed our interview with Dan, who is pictured right above in action against Brighton, and Ryan Sweeney, after they signed professional deals at AFC Wimbledon, click on
Dan will receive a £50 cheque for his selection and a certificate.
, a combination of Dan’s football and academic progress earned praise.LFE websiteOn the
An article stating the reasons for his selection, stated:
“Daniel has had a tremendous period, having captained the youth team, become a regular starter for the Under-21s and earning a professional contract for next season.
Despite being just 17, the central midfielder has impressed development coach Alan Reeves and first-team boss Neil Ardley with his tenacious and mature displays against more experienced opposition from higher divisions in the Football League.
“At the same time, Daniel has been an ideal apprentice, working extremely hard to fulfill his potential at South Thames College, where tutors Deb Carey and Sandro Sandri have been impressed by his attitude and the level of work produced. He is on target to easily surpass his predicted grade in his Btec Diploma and has completed his NVQ.”
“‘The 11’ for February 2015 are as follows:
• Daniel Gallagher (AFC Wimbledon)
• Kieran Dunbar (Birmingham City)
• Dominic Telford (Blackpool)
• Tyler Lyttle (Bristol Rovers)
• Ademola Lookman (Charlton Athletic)
• Jodi Jones (Dagenham & Redbridge)
• Jacob Hanson (Huddersfield Town)
• Hayden Coulson (Middlesbrough)
• Spencer Brown (Sheffield Wednesday)
• Kyle King (Walsall)
• Dennon Lewis (Watford)