Experienced defender aims to grasp opportunity
Adam Barrett has been given the green light to play in Monday’s FA Cup tie against Liverpool – and the defender says he would love to extend his stay at AFC Wimbledon.
The 35-year-old is determined to make the most of another crack at the big time after he previously played – and scored – in an FA Cup tie against Chelsea.
Barrett’s current loan spell from Gillingham runs up until the end of 5 January and he hopes to finish on a high by nullifying the likes of Raheem Sterling, Philippe Coutinho and Steven Gerrard.
Speaking during an interview for Dons Player, Barrett said: “I grew up in an era when the FA Cup was the be all and end all. This will be a special occasion, especially because of the final between Wimbledon and Liverpool in 1988. That has stirred up sentiment and feeling within the club. I’m thoroughly delighted now that I can play in this match.
“I’m still enjoying my football, but I’m coming towards the latter end of my career. We felt that if we could get past Wycombe then we could get a dream tie and that’s exactly what has happened. As you get older these opportunities become fewer and hopefully I can play a big part on Monday night.”
Barrett’s partnership with young Jake Goodman has helped Wimbledon win four out of the last five games and the Gillingham centre-back says spirits are high heading into the Liverpool match.
“I’ve really enjoyed it here and I’m very happy,” added Barrett. “It’s a great set-up, the management have been fantastic, and it’s a really good club. I’d be more than happy to stay for longer, but I don’t know what’s happening at Gillingham.
“Jake is learning his trade and hopefully I’ve helped him in that respect. The results have been good because we’ve won six out of the last nine games in all competitions. Preparations have been really good and there’s been a relaxed atmosphere around the club, especially because of our two great wins over Christmas. The lads are really looking forward to Monday night’s game.”
The interview with Adam Barrett appeared on Dons Player yesterday, along with Neal Ardley’s team update. The full 12-minute press conference with Neal Ardley at Friday’s media day also features on our premium channel.