Saikou Janneh has seen plenty in his short but storied career - but he puts the feeling of rejection down as the biggest turning point yet.
Fresh after arriving on loan from Cambridge United, the Gambian attacker tells all about his second chance with Bristol City, adjusting to life in a new country and more as he prepares to settle into life at Plough Lane.
Watch the full interview below.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
It’s a good opportunity for me to showcase my talent. It’s been good to change clubs in order to further my development.
FROM GAMBIA TO ENGLAND
It took me four or five years to get used to living over here. England is very different to Gambia. Me and my friends used to mess about playing football after school. Moving to Europe to play football has always been a dream for me.
REJECTION AND REDEMPTION
I had my first trial when I was 15 but they said I wasn’t good enough. From there I went to Bath City where the hard work I put in got me another trial a year after. When I got rejected I took the feedback onboard – the second time I knew I was ready.
FAMILIAR FACES
Before I arrived Sam Pearson told me a lot of good things about the club. My season at Torquay United was really good, we won the league title. I know Armani Little from my time there, he’s a good guy.
THE SQUAD
I did my research before coming here. The team is well organised and I believe that I can add something extra to the squad moving forwards. I’m quick and I bring flair to the table.
PICS: Lucy Dixon