Salford City’s latest signing, Brendan Wiredu, has been sharing his thoughts and anticipation for this new chapter in his playing career.
The 26-year-old Ghanaian midfielder is the newest addition to Peter Cklamovski’s squad, having moved to the AIG Stadium from League One’s Plymouth Argyle this week.
Speaking to SCFC TV after putting pen to paper, the versatile midfielder, who can also play in defence, expressed his eagerness to join his new team and his hopes for a successful season.
“It feels good, and I am relieved that it is finally over the line. I am buzzing to be here and cannot wait to get started.
“I am not going to shy away from it, we know what the ambition is and what we want to do this season. To come in and be a big part of that is a key reason why I wanted to join.
“Football is about wanting to be part of a successful team, and I want to be a key part of that here.”
Having started his career as a youngster at Charlton Athletic, Brendan has gone on to make close to 260 senior appearances in his career to this point, including over 120 for Fleetwood Town where he was also made captain.
“Being a captain at such a young age was a very big stepping stone for me, and I was able to use my leadership in different ways.
“I am someone who leaves it all on the pitch. Out of possession I am relentless, someone that is going to be in the opposition’s face, giving them no time or space.
“On the ball I am calm and composed, getting the ball down and playing, and adding a few goals whenever I can. Hopefully I can add to what is already a very talented squad and play a big part in it.
“I know exactly what it takes to play at this level. It is a relentless and gruelling league, there are loads of games, but you have to stick at it and be able to play your part.
“Experience at any level is key so luckily I have got that, having played quite a few games at this level and higher. I can use that and share it around the squad.”
Salford’s new signing is also a keen advocate of using sport as a tool for inspiring change off the pitch. He has established his own charity, The Brendan Wiredu Foundation, to act as a positive influence on younger generations and he is already keen to participate in Salford City FC Foundation’s community initiatives.
“From where I come from and where I have been, in East London, I was brought up in a community household where I was able to give back.
“When I was younger I wasn’t the best-behaved child, but I had mentors who were able to keep me on the right path so I think it is only right that I do the same in the position I am in now, with people looking up to me.
“Being able to share my knowledge and my experiences to the younger generation through sports and other things is key. Hopefully it helps them stay on the right track.
“I am looking forward to working with the club’s foundation, getting stuck in, and hopefully helping and adding to the already good work that they are doing.”
Now a Salfordian, Brendan is available for selection for Saturday’s first home league game of the season against Chesterfield and he cannot wait to add his qualities to the squad.
“My expectations are to play as many games as I possibly can and to be a key part of what I believe will be a successful team.
“I am super excited to get started and get going, and show what I am able to do. But also help show what the team is capable of. Hopefully we can go on a good run.”
