An Interview with Jake Walker
We recently took an opportunity to have a quick chat with our versatile 22 year old player Jake Walker.
Jake, who lives in Shrewsbury, joined the Aston Villa Academy at the age of nine, his undoubted talent saw him progressing through the various age groups at Villa Park and his hard work and dedication was rewarded in 2019 when he signed his first pro contract.
In January 2020, Jake was sent out on loan to Banbury United until the end of the 2019/2020 season in order to gain valuable first team experience. Another loan spell followed in October 2020 when he played first team football for Alvechurch. Jake was recalled by his parent club in January 2021 and was named in Villa’s starting XI for their third round FA Cup tie against Liverpool. Previously, Jake had also played for the Aston Villa Under-21’s in EFL Trophy games.
Jake was released by Aston Villa at the end of the 2020/2021 campaign and signed for Newtown in August 2021. He made his debut for the Robins on 15th August 2021 in a 4-1 defeat against The New Saints. Meanwhile his first goal for the club came in December 2021 in a 2-0 win over Flint Town United.
QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS
Earliest memory of watching and playing football: I can remember watching the 2006 World Cup and playing football with my brother at the local park.
Best moment in football so far: It has got to be playing for Aston Villa in the third round of the FA Cup against Liverpool in January 2021, what an amazing experience that was for all of us young lads.
Worst moment in football so far: Being released by Aston Villa.
Hopes for this season: To have a good run in the Welsh Cup and to move up the league table after a disappointing start to the season.
Hope for the remainder of your career: To keep on enjoying football and to see where it takes me.
We thank Jake for taking the time to speak to us and wish him well for the rest of the season and beyond.
Words: Gareth Thomas