Hart’s decision was right one
SAM Hart reckons his decision to return to Rochdale this season is reaping rewards.
The Blackburn Rovers defender made just one start for Keith Hill’s men during a six-month loan spell last term.
But the 22-year-old was quick to accept Hill’s offer of a 12-month stay this term and he’s featured regularly this time around.
It may have come as a surprise to some, given the lack of game time during his first spell at the club, but Hart said he had faith in his own ability to make an impression at Dale and turned down other offers to work again under Hill.
Hart made his eighth start for Dale as left-back in the 1-0 win against Charlton and feels vindicated in choosing a second loan spell at the Crown Oil Arena.
“It was a hard one but you have to back yourself as a player,” he said. “I spoke to the manager throughout the summer break and pre-season, so while I had other options I knew I had a really good option here and decided this was the best place for me to come to and I’m glad I made that decision.
“It’s important for me to get game time and I’ve had a lot more this year than last season. This year I have had a lot more game time that last year and obviously it’s been a lot easier this time, coming into the dressing room and knowing everyone and the way the manager wants to play, the way the club operates and what they are all about.
“The gaffer gives me licence to get forward and that’s one of my strengths, so I’m really enjoying myself.”
Hart played his part in an impressive victory against Charlton last weekend. It was only Dale’s second league win of the season on their own turf, but with another three successive home games on the horizon – starting with today’s League One clash against Luton Town – the former Manchester United and Liverpool youth team player is hoping the squad can continue in similar vein.
“We’re all hoping it can be the start of a good run at home. Confidence will be high going into the game against Luton and hopefully we can continue.
“I thought we were great for ninety minutes. We created a lot of chances and kept Charlton out – they only had a couple of chances early on and towards the end of the game. But as a team I thought it was a great performance.
“As defenders we set out to keep a clean sheet every game and we accomplished that.”