Defender reflects on Rochdale loan and chats about pre-season with the Royals…
Centre-half Jeriel Dorsett is excited to be back at Bearwood this week, as he begins pre-season training with the Under-23 squad as the summer break comes to an end.
The young defender has made two first appearances for the Royals and, after a season spent out on loan with League Two side Rochdale, a further year in his existing contract at the club was triggered and now he can’t wait to hit the ground running as he looks ahead to next season as a Reading player.
“It’s nice to be back; it’s been a while since I’ve been here!” said Dorsett.
“I had a good summer… a little rest period for me. And now it’s back to it! Getting back to fitness and looking forward to getting the season started.”
During his season long temporary switch to Greater Manchester, the 20-year-old defender played 45 times – and even got a personal accolade at the end of the campaign. A long way from home, learning about all the responsibilities and challenges that come with making his way in the pro game.
“Rochdale was a great experience,” he continued. “I’m really happy to have played some men’s football and get some games under my belt.
“Coming back here, I feel a lot more confident in my ability and I’m ready to prove my worth.
“Playing senior-level football week-in, week-out… it does a lot for you. It gives you experience, and you figure out what to do at certain times, and you adapt to the game quicker.
“And winning Young Player of the Year was a great personal achievement, especially as it was my first loan spell. It’s great to have that under my belt and it shows I can do it.
“I was living on my own, but that was good; it was a different experience. Cooking and cleaning for myself, waking myself up and not having anyone to come after you! Proper adulthood, getting down to it and becoming a professional.”
Finally, Dorsett spoke of his targets for the campaign as he tries to impress U23 boss Noel Hunt so he can fulfil his ambition of joining the likes of Tom Holmes and Tom McIntyre as a regular in the Royals first team backline.
He continued: “I can’t wait to start working with Noel; he’s a great man, a great guy. I’ve had a few conversations with him and we’re getting along really well.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside him, doing what he wants me to do, and trying to push on into the first team.
“I want to push through the team, earn a spot and get in the manager’s good books and make sure he notices me every week.”