Inside View with Charlton defender Frazer Richardson
Published: 10:52, 08 October 2009
Updated: 10:52, 08 October 2009
I was the man in demand before Saturday’s game against Leeds United.
After leaving Elland Road over the summer, the media naturally identified me as the player to talk to in advance of the top of the table clash – but I wasn’t so keen.
It was a big game for us, especially after our defeat to Colchester United the previous midweek and I wanted to focus completely on the game.
I didn’t want any distractions, perhaps from having to do lots of interviews beforehand and I think it paid off because as a team and individually, we did well against Leeds.
It wasn’t the most entertaining match you’ll ever see – the wind made sure of that – and it was hard to win headers in particular.
But we were pleased with the way we played and happy to return south with a point.
I spent seven years with Leeds, so going back was strange. I left on good terms but it was quite emotional. I got a decent reception but there are no friends when you’re out on the pitch.
While it was nice to see everyone at the weekend, though, I think the move has given me a new lease of life.
I was a bit apprehensive about leaving Leeds at first, regardless of which club I was going to.
I didn’t really know what to expect because Leeds had been my only club.
But everyone’s been great at Charlton and I’ve settled straight in. The football’s going well, the team is playing well and I’ve been playing well and that’s all you can hope for as a footballer.
I would be more than happy if both Charlton and Leeds were promoted this season and I’m sure both clubs will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.
We were looking forward to three home games in a row after the Leeds match, with Oldham on Saturday after the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash with Barnet in midweek.
And with Leeds not having a match this weekend due to the international fixtures, it’s the perfect opportunity for us to put a marker down and go back to the top of the table.
We need a two-goal victory to do that but first and foremost we will be concentrating on winning the game.
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Alex Hoad