Kellan Gordon, a defender for Notts County, has enjoyed a solid start to his time at Meadow Lane, having made five appearances this season.
After stepping up due to an injury sustained to Jodi Jones in a recent match against Gillingham, the 26-year-old has impressed both on and off the pitch.
In a recent interview, Gordon spoke openly about his experience since joining Notts County and the significant role that returning home has played in his career.
"I've really enjoyed it, to be fair," Gordon shared when asked about his time at Notts. "Every day coming into training, I have a smile on my face. Itβs just good. Iβm back home as well, so itβs just been a perfect move for me, Iβd say."
The move to Notts County represented a homecoming for Gordon, who had spent the previous season at Crawley Town, where he was part of the team that secured promotion. Despite the success at Crawley, the opportunity to return closer to his roots was too good to pass up.
"A lot of things happen in football that are out of your control," he said. "But being back home is a massive part for me because all my familyβs here. That in itself brings back comfort. My mumβs down the corner, my siblings around the corner, so itβs nice to be back."
For Gordon, family plays a significant role in his mental and emotional well-being, which he believes translates into improved performances on the pitch. He noted that having his support system nearby helps ease the pressure that comes with professional football.
"Itβs massive. Family for me always comes first," Gordon explained. "When Iβm having good and bad days, I can just go to my mumβs or see my siblings. It takes a massive mental weight off your shoulders, and I think it does make my football better. Itβs like having a comfort blanket to lean on, and my family comes to the games as well, which helps."
Despite having tasted success with previous clubs, Gordon remains ambitious about his future and is eager to play at a higher level. However, he recognises that circumstances in football are sometimes beyond a playerβs control.
"Of course, I want to play at a higher level, itβs a massive thing I want to achieve," Gordon said. "But like I said before, a lot of things werenβt in my control. Now, being at Notts, I see no reason why we canβt push on to the next league."
Gordon believes Notts Countyβs squad has the potential to achieve great things this season. When asked what gives him confidence in the teamβs prospects, he pointed to the depth and quality within the squad.
"I think itβs the squad we have. No matter who plays in what position, weβve always got a strong player to come in or start. That plays a massive part in any successful team," he said.
Reflecting on his own performances, Gordon feels he has made the most of his opportunities so far this season, stepping up when called upon and making a positive impact.
"I believe Iβve taken my chances when Iβve had an opportunity," Gordon said. "When Iβve come on, Iβve made an impact on what the manager wants me to do, and in the two games Iβve started, I feel Iβve made my mark on the game as well."
One of Gordonβs standout moments came when he scored in a match against Burton Albion, a town close to his heart.
"I got a goal against Burton, where I was born, so that was a nice touch," he smiled. "All my family was there, literally all my grandparents live in Burton, so everyone was there."
Looking ahead to the next few weeks, Gordon acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead for Notts County but remains confident that the team can maintain their strong start to the season.
"I think every week in this league is tough," he reflected. "Whether youβre playing someone at the top or the bottom, every game is a test. But weβre well-drilled, and the squad is strong enough to handle it."
Gordon also praised the atmosphere at Meadow Lane and the investments the club has made, including the new pitch, which has created an environment he believes is ready for success.
"Itβs a brilliant stadium. Even last season, when I played here as an opponent, it was a great atmosphere. Now, being part of the home side, itβs fantastic. Everything is set up for this club to go higher, itβs now up to us to take it to that next level."
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment