More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Brandon Hanlan is looking to take his game to another level next season.
He’s played more than 40 matches since moving to the Gills last summer in what has been his first full season in League 1.
Eight goals is a reasonable return considering Hanlan’s inexperience.
“I would like a couple more goals in the last game and then call it a good season!” said the young striker. “Double figures would be good.
“I have definitely learnt a lot this season and I have improved my game. I know what my strengths are and how to play in certain games. I want to take what I have learnt into next season and keep it flourishing.
“In my head I knew I was good enough to play League 1 football. I knew it was never going to be easy to get into the team, because Gills are a good team and there are good players who have come and gone. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy but I never doubted myself.”
It was outgoing boss Steve Lovell who gave Hanlan a chance, bringing him in on a free transfer when Charlton released him.
Hanlan said: “I am pleased the gaffer took me in and gave me the opportunity to enable me to play. He believed in me and put me in the team and gave me the chance to show people what I can do. I have to respect the gaffer for that.
“It was sad news that the gaffer has gone, but at the same time it is football and you just have to keep it professional and get on with the game.
“It’s going to happen, wherever you go, it can happen at any club, you just have to keep it professional and keep on doing what you do on the pitch. The rest will speak for itself.
“I came to Gills to play. I am happy with how the season has panned out, I am happy with being able to have played as many games as I have. I just want to continue the good work going into next season.”
Hanlan will have to impress a new manager now.
He said: “There will be a new gaffer in and you want to impress them and show why you should be starting in the team, but I won’t put too much pressure on myself because at the same time the pressure can affect your game.
“I don’t put too much pressure on myself because I know what I can do and I don’t see the point in putting too much pressure on myself doing something I know I am capable of.”
The Gills have just one game left at Blackpool on Saturday.
“We just want to finish the season and get things done, try and win the game,” Hanlan said.
“Every game you want to win. You have to go into it knowing what to do, get the win and enjoy the break.”
