The gaffer wants hungry players – I can bring that
ADAM Anson says he jumped at the chance to join Southport when the opportunity arose in January.
The 23-year-old centre back signed from Witton Albion and made his Port debut against Kidderminster in March, after a short loan spell back at Wincham Park.
Anson, who had spells with Wigan Athletic and Macclesfield, said: “The gaffer at Witton rang me up one Sunday out the blue saying: ‘Southport have put a bid in for you,’ so after that there was no question about it.”
The defender was only just settling into life with the Sandgrounders when the UK entered lockdown.
He continued: “It has been a good start, but a very weird one at the same time. During the first training session everyone made me feel dead comfortable, I knew quite a few of the lads before coming in, so there were some familiar faces which is always nice when you go into a new club.”
His only appearance came in what would become Southport’s final game of the 2019/20 Vanarama National League North campaign.
Despite only having one game under his belt, the 23-year-old enjoyed his taste of match action at the Pure Stadium.
“I got that (buzz that) comes from being in front of a crowd and having that atmosphere, it spurs you on to do more. After that first game I wanted to go again the week after, and the week after that, so now I’m just looking forward to getting back into it, whenever that may be.”
This was not the first time he’d been on the field at Haig Avenue, having appeared in a pre-season friendly during his time at Wigan Athletic.
“It was when they had the old stand, so it was a lot different because they’ve spent a lot of money on the ground and I’m very impressed with facilities. Of course, the fans are also nice and loud, which is what you want, because you need them to be the twelfth man.”
Anson admits he is looking forward to playing under Liam Watson and has already begun to learn from his new manager.
“You can see his work ethic and that every point matters. From the short time I have been at the club I can see his philosophy and I will adapt my game to that. The more work I do the more natural it will be.”
He continues: “In my first session we did have a bit of a tiff when he had a go at me for passing back to the keeper. He wants to get the ball forward as quick as possible and if I put the keeper under pressure then it is my fault. It was something we talked about because he wants to improve my game.”
The centre back believes he can fit Watson’s model of player and wants to do his best for the side.
“I knew (Liam) Watson was looking for players who were young and hungry, and I feel I bring that. After having setbacks from being released with Wigan, I want to prove people wrong.
“He wants people who have something to prove and who will fight for the club, not just bystanders who are happy to pick up a wage.”
So far in this transfer window,
Southport have added Marcus Carver and Matt Challoner to their ranks, with Anson looking forward to linking up with his players who he knows from his time with Chorley.
“I’m very excited, they are two real good signings.
“They’re two good mates of mine and will bring two completely different things to the side.”
He believes that Marcus Carver will be a great addition to the Port attack and will add some more firepower.
“He has a proven track record. He’s someone you love having in your team but hate playing against. He’s nasty, he works hard for the team, doesn’t stop running, scores goals and works the channels, he’s everything Watson wants in a striker.
“I think he will link up really well with Sammo (Jack Sampson) and George (Newell), whilst adding something different to the side.”
Anson is also looking forward to playing in a back four alongside Challoner, who has returned to the club after previously being at Haig Avenue between 2013 and 2016.
“He is one of the best 1 v 1 defenders I have played with. He will give you 100 per cent week in, week out.
“No-one will get past him, he’s a committed lad so will fit the philosophy, and hopefully we can get promotion like we did with Chorley.”