Paul Kalambayi is optimistic about Wimbledon’s prospects for 2019/20 after last season’s strong finish.
From a personal perspective, the 20-year-old centre back can’t wait for his first full campaign at first-team level after his breakthrough season last time around.
“I’m quite excited because of our form after the new gaffer came in and the way that we finished the season,” said Paul. “We would have been mid-table if the season had started from when the manager took over. If we can carry on with the same performance levels and improve upon that we will definitely be looking to do better than last season.
“It’s a big season for me because it’s my first proper season. I only played for the first-team for half a season last time around. I was just getting used to it, including how quickly each game comes along. This time I’ve had time to prepare for the whole pre-season. It’s been a good one as we’ve played good teams and I’m looking forward to the new season.”
Six signings have arrived at Wimbledon since 2018/19 ended and that has meant plenty of initiation songs for the new boys! Paul, whose initiation song came when he first travelled with the first-team squad at the age of 16, revealed the players who had topped the charts!
“The new boys have fitted in well, we are making conversations with each of them, and they feel comfortable here,” said Paul. “They are getting to know the rest of the boys well and it’s always good to mingle with the new players so that they are comfortable in the new environment. We’ve still got a couple of lads that haven’t sung their initiation songs yet! Callum (Reilly) hasn’t sung yet, but Adam Roscrow was good and Nesta was a bit shy. I would say that Roscrow and Nathan Trott were the best singers!
Of course, Wimbledon’s last pre-season match is against Crystal Palace tonight (7.45 pm kick-off). If you missed it, Paul talked yesterday about facing the club he almost joined as a 15-year-old. We also published Wally’s Update in the build-up to tonight’s game, in case you missed it.
Ticket prices for tonight’s game are as follows:
Unallocated seating in Paul Strank Stand
Adult - £20
Concession - £15
U18s - £8
Chemflow Terrace
Adult - £15
Concession - £10
U18s - £4