Bakare settling in to Lichties family

New boy Michael Bakare says the family atmosphere at Arbroath is what sold the club to him as he looks to bring his own up to Scotland.

The 35-year-old, who has played for a long list of clubs, put pen to paper on a deal with the Championship leaders until the end of the season.

He had only just arrived in Scotland, but is already eyeing up potential homes in the area for his wife and two young children to move into as he aims to stay with the Lichties into next season.

For now, his own family are still in London but can’t wait to join him.

“I got a call from my agent and he asked if I fancied going up to Scotland,” Bakare said of his move.

“I experienced a warmth and a family vibe here. The manager and players were honest.

“It was a no-brainer for me. They’re top of the league and I thought I would come and try to help out and join the party.

“The gaffers know I want to come and do well and stay for next season.

“In that case, hopefully my family will come up to Scotland and spend time here as well.

“They can’t wait to come up. As I’ve just arrived, I’m just trying to settle down but I’m looking forward to them coming to a game.”

For now, Bakare is lodging with fellow new recruit Sam Ford in a flat just a stone’s throw from the Lichties’ training base in Perth.

The pair both played in Iceland but their paths never crossed until now and both are settling into life in Scotland well.

“It has been great,” he said.

“It is so much easier to get around than in London.

“Sam played in Iceland as well. He was someone I knew about because we were in the same league.

“Coming up here, when I met the gaffer was the first time I met Sam.

“He’s been cool, a good lad and focused who wants to do well.

“As a footballer, you’re used to rooming with people on away trips so it’s not unusual.”

The former Connah’s Quay Nomads striker was given his debut in the final moments of the side’s 3-1 defeat to Hibs.

But Bakare knows full well he may have to be patient to get his opportunity in the high-flying Arbroath side.

“The key thing is that the team keeps winning,” he said.

“If I’m called upon, I’ll be ready.

“I want to play as much as possible, but I’ve joined a team that’s already successful every week.

“It’s going to be tough to get into the winning team.

“But I know I have qualities that can contribute and I hope I can show that whenever the manager wants to put me in.”

TRANSITION: Striker Michael Bakare is relishing the challenge of Scottish football.