“I have no doubt that Joshua Walker will be the best midfielder in India,” Bengaluru FC coach Ashley Westwood says.
Walker’s obvious potential — he captained the England under-16, under-17 and under-20 sides — has not quite translated into a successful professional career yet. He spent six years with English club Middlesbrough (2005-11), which was marked by several loan spells to smaller clubs, before he turned out for Conference Premier side, Gateshead FC in 2013-14.
Walker’s transfer to India’s champion side presents the Newcastle-born footballer with a welcome second lease of life.
Walker spoke to the media at the Bangalore Football Stadium, a couple of days after joining BFC.
On the transfer: Towards the end of last season, I got a call from the gaffer (coach Ashley Westwood). I have known (BFC defender and fellow Middlesbrough youth academy product) John Johnson for a long time, and he told me that BFC is the best club in India.
Later, once I spoke to the gaffer and met him in person, I had no doubts about coming here. I was joining the reigning I-League champion; it was an opportunity I could not miss.
On transitioning to senior professional football: I have captained England from the age of 15 to 20, in every age-group. It was a massive honour.
After that, I did not reach the potential that I had shown as a youngster. It was probably because I wanted to run before I could walk. I was very impatient — that was my downfall as a youngster.
That is why I am here — I want to prove to everyone that I am a good player.
On opportunities in India: I think English players are now more open to playing in India. This is down to a lot of factors.
The recession back home has hit football as well. There are many talented players without a club. So, you are always looking to play abroad.
For me, when I got this chance, I felt it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get out of my comfort zone. I wanted a fresh challenge.
