Winger revitalised at Wimbledon
David Fitzpatrick believes he has made adjustments to his game that will give him a better chance of being a future first-team player after signing a new deal at AFC Wimbledon.
The 20-year-old winger made enough of an impression in his first season at the club to convince Neal Ardley that he can make the step-up to League 2 level.
During an interview for Dons Player, the former QPR youngster (pictured above) said: “I am buzzing to have another year to hopefully be a proper first-team player. I did want to break into the first-team a bit more this season, but I felt there were quite a few things to work on. I had the wrong opinion of things, but the manager has really helped me. I now know that I have to work harder for the team and as long as I do that I will not have a problem.
“Previously, I would do my own stuff and my job for the team would come second. But in men’s football the job for the team has to come first and then whatever I can do to affect games will come naturally. Since I was young I have wanted to play in a stadium in front of lots of fans roaring you on. Hopefully, I can get more opportunities in the first-team.”
Fitzpatrick, who has made three League 2 appearances as a substitute, added that he has learned plenty from being a part of Alan Reeves’ development squad and from fellow winger George Francomb.
“We did not lose many matches with the Under-21s this season,” added Fitzpatrick. “It was perfect preparation because we play in a similar style. It did not feel like I was moving up and it was completely different. Alan Reeves is really good because he tries to implement what we will be required to do at first-team level in the Under-21s.
“George is a very different player to me, but he probably has the best delivery of crosses at the club. His crossing ability and technique is great. I need to improve my crossing, especially with someone like Bayo Akinfenwa up front. George is someone I can learn off as I try to develop my game.”