Defender Fankaty Dabo spoke of his excitement as his move to Coventry City was completed.
The 23-year-old joins the Sky Blues in July following the conclusion of his contract with Chelsea.
“I’m excited. I’ve spoken to the Gaffer and I know a few of the boys and I know Adi (Viveash), so I’m excited to kick on and make a new start in my career.”
Asked what sort of player Sky Blues fans should expect, the right back was giving nothing away.
“I hope to show it on the pitch” said Dabo.
“I don’t want to say too much yet. I’m going to repay the Manager’s faith and hopefully show how good I am on the pitch.”
Dabo moves from Chelsea, a side that he joined as 12-year-old and rose up the ranks with. Though he has had loan moves in England and Holland, the move to the Sky Blues is his first permanent transfer from Stamford Bridge – and a big decision in his life.
“Being at one of the biggest clubs in the world, it’s difficult to move away and take a big step in your career,” Fankaty said.
“I’m getting older now, I’m twenty three, and I think it’s the right time and here is the place to do it.”
While at Chelsea, he crossed paths with Sky Blues Assistant Manager Adi Viveash and having a familiar face at Ryton is something that Dabo said helped in the transfer.
“You feel a bit at home, you know somebody and it makes you feel more comfortable to make decisions like this.
“Adi and Chris Badlan (Head of Recruitment) both messaged me, and it was a no brainer after that. I spoke to my agent and we all came as a collective and it was definitely the best decision to make the move.”
At the age of 23, Dabo has experience of living and playing abroad – as well as featuring in the Europa League for Vitesse Arnhem.
Reflecitng on how it developed him as a player and a person, Dabo commented, “It was difficult at first. Being in Holland it’s a whole new language and a whole new culture, but then you adjust and then you learn about the different culture and different people. As a player and a person I think it helped me move on leaps and bounds.”
With the agreement to join the Sky Blues complete, Dabo’s attentions now turn to a restful summer before focusing on his Coventry City career and the new season.
“I’m definitely going to get away. I literally just finished my season not too long ago, so it’s time to get away, relax, clear my head and make sure I come back fit mentally and physically for the new season.
“I’m 100% excited. It’s going to be a big season for all of us.”