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Walker's growing in stature
by
Ky Capel
After waiting almost six weeks for his chance in the limelight, Nathan Walker is determined to maintain his spot at the heart of the Dorchester defence.
The towering centre-half, who rejoined the county town outfit in mid-December from Wessex Prem-ier League side Wimborne Town, has made six consecutive appearances since his first inclusion in the starting XI.
And with numerous impressive displays, as well as three clean sheets to his name, the 23-year-old is growing in stature.
He said: “I’m feeling more confident with ever game I play. I initially dropped down the leagues to gain experience and build my confidence. Playing at Wessex League level helped, as did playing under Alex Browne at Wimborne and Phil Simkin at Hamworthy United.
“They taught me a lot and I’ve been given the chance to come back to Dorchester.
“I had to weigh up the options. I spoke to Alex about it, and Ashley Vickers as well, as I didn’t want to just come and sit on the bench – I want to be playing as I’m only 23.
“I had to be patient as I knew I wouldn’t just come straight into the side. When we lost to Wey-mouth on New Year’s Day I thought I might get a chance.
“I had to wait for Phil Walsh to leave as well and once he did I got my chance and hopefully I’ve taken it. I just need to keep performing.”
The former Wimborne and Hamworthy man, who made a handful of appearances for the Magpies during the 2005/06 season, believes partnering experienced skipper Kevin Hill of late has aided his development.
Walker added: “I feel like I’ve progressed as a player and playing alongside Kevin Hill, as well as having Ash as a manger, has helped massively.
“Hopefully I can get to their level and just continue to progress.”
Hill and Walker enjoyed back-to-back clean sheets in victories over Weston-super-Mare and Thurrock but the former was forced off at half-time in Saturday’s goalless draw with Bromley before flu kept him out of Monday’s narrow defeat at Chelmsford.
The latter is looking forward to seeing his captain back in action. He said: “Kev’s a great leader and a good player so hopefully we’ll be playing alongside each other again soon.”
In Hill’s absence at the weekend, Walker was handed the captain’s armband. The defender added: “I had a little smile to myself because it must mean Ash thinks I’m a natural leader. It was a great honour.”
And Walker’s recent performances have received a ringing endorsement from caretaker-manager Ashley Vickers, who said: “Nathan has been superb since he’s come in.”
The Magpies will host a Fans’ Forum at the Jewson Stadium tonight (6.30pm).
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