"Home Grown and Hungry" star aims high
Young midfielder Dan Gallagher is hoping to make the bench for AFC Wimbledon's first team before this season is over.
Dan said: "It's going really well, I just need to keep impressing. I need to keep pushing on and hopefully get on the bench for the first team maybe before the end of the season - if not, hopefully next season and make a few appearances."
The former under-18s captain of Mark Robinson's squad was speaking after receiving a certificate and cheque for £50 in recognition for his efforts as part of the League Football Education’s “The 11” - a competition run by LFE to recognise apprentice achievements and replace the Apprentice of the Month award.
Regional LFE staff select young players from clubs around the country based on academic and football progress during the current season.
Gallagher is now a regular fixture in Alan Reeves' development side and having recovered from injury recently, has just signed his first professional deal at the club.
"There is a sense of pride in the group, especially the ones I’ve come through with since under-12s and 13s – it’s been brilliant. We’re used to each other now and even the new boys we’ve been playing with like Chace (Jacquart), Fitz (David Fitzpatrick) and George Pilbeam. They ve fitted in as well and we all get along really well," added Gallagher.
"It’s important to stay grounded. Getting this award is good and it’s good for the young lads to see and hopefully it inspires them to do that."
Having come under Mark Robinson’s guidance in his formative years, Dan isn’t about to let success go to his head.