Huseyin Biler is fast becoming an established member of our first-team, but it was an unlikely turn of events that led him to Wimbledon.
As part of an in-depth interview, ‘Hus’ explains how he narrowly missed out on a move to Ewood Park, reveals the secret behind his energetic performances and provides a message to his departing friend, Ayoub Assal.
TURNING PRO
I was playing Sunday League until I was 17. Mark Robinson signed me just before the season started and showed a lot of faith in me. The only other trial I had previously was with Blackburn Rovers. I did really well but the person who handed me the opportunity lost his job as I was about to sign. It proved to be a blessing in disguise.
FOOTBALL IN THE FAMILY
My twin brother also plays football and he was previously at Southend United. He was unfortunate not to earn a professional deal because I’d say we’re both at the same level in terms of quality. He plays in non-league at the moment but I believe he will turn professional in the future.
My Dad comes to watch me a lot, as does my mum occasionally. A lot of credit has to go to my Dad, he’s been there since day one in my footballing journey. He’d take me and my brother to training and every match after finishing work. He’s always showed faith in us.
JACK CURRIE
It’s great to be playing alongside him at first-team level after our time in the Academy. He’s someone I know inside out in terms of his personality and how he plays.
OFF THE LINE V BRADFORD
I knew from experience that it was right for me to get back to cover that area. I saw their player peel off at the back post and luckily I anticipated the flight of the ball.
RELENTLESS ENERGY
It’s something I’ve had since I was young. I did a lot of long distance running when I was a kid and I also looked to perform at a high intensity.
PLOUGH LANE
The atmosphere is simply wonderful. The fans have been very supportive to me and they give us an extra level of energy when they’re at it. Usually I don’t hear the crowd when I’m on the pitch because I'm in the zone but when the ball goes out of play you hear a real roar and it makes the hairs stand up on the back of your neck.
FAREWELL AYOUB
Ayoub has been my best mate since I came to the club. I’m very close to him and naturally myself and the team will miss him a lot, but at the end of the day it’s another chapter in what is already a successful career. As a team we have to keep going and kick-on again.
JOHNNIE JACKSON AND TERRY SKIVERTON
The gaffer and Terry are very easy to talk to. Whether it’s to do with football or anything in life, it doesn’t matter, they provide you with support. The information and tips that they give me are helping improve my game. I appreciate everything they do for me.
STAYING GROUNDED
I never ever tell myself that I’ve made it. I’ve been brought up to stay grounded in everything I do. Having humility is one of the best qualities a human being can have. I want to thank the manager, the coaches and my teammates for getting me this far.
Of course, you can support Hus and the boys at Newport tomorrow. Fans can pay for tickets on the day (cash only) at the away ticket booth (gate six) from 2pm.
PICS: Pro Sports Images