Player Interview – Louis Parral

Gibraltar Under 19 International Louis Parral, 18, joined Chris Swailes’ side back in October having recently moved to Newcastle, where he is currently studying a degree in Media and Journalism at Northumbria University. 

Louis has been capped at youth level from Under 16 through to Under 19  for his national side, having come through the youth system of Gibraltar National League side Lions Gibraltar FC with whom he had been with  since the age of 6.

In this interview we talk to the talented youngster on his move to The UTS Stadium.

“I’m obviously really happy to be playing football up here, not just for my University team, that was important to me and I’m glad to be joining a club that is clearly on its way up. From the first stint of the season it looks like it’s going to be competitive and thought that was important. I also think that it’s a strong squad and the level is really good, so that will only improve me as a player

With you moving over to The U.K.  from Gibraltar, what is it you want to accomplish in the game?

I’d definitely like to use it to push into the Gibraltar Under 21 squad, that’s the next step for me, but at the minute I’d just like to prove myself and try to break into the Dunston team.

Looking at the squad you’ve joined, how difficult do you think it will be for you to break into the side?

I back my own ability, I’ve been in competitive squads before, the seniors back home were a very good side, but I also respect the fact that I’m the last one to come in and that means I’ve got to work hard to push into the team.

How does the standard of Football  you’ve faced in England compare to the standard in Gibraltar?

Definitely very different as in the physicality, everyone seems to be very quick and strong rather than technical, where as back home you’re expected to be better technically before you are physical and quick. The ball tends to be in a air a lot here where at home you’d be expected to play out from the back consistanly.

How has the news of your move to Dunston been received back home in Gibraltar?

People have been dropping me messages saying they’re happy for me and that it’s a good step out. It’s puts me into a different environment where I can learn something new and add something extra to my game which will only just go to make me a more complete player. 

What made you think about moving to Tyneside, considering that you’ve probably spent most of your life in 20 odd degree sunshine and you’re now in Newcastle where it’s about 5 degrees and raining most days?

First of all I knew Newcastle was a very sporty place, I knew that everyone is very passionaite about their sport. The weather doesn’t bother me, it takes some getting used to but I don’t think it will be a big deal I’ll just put a big coat on.

Louis pictured above on signing, holding up Dunston’s new 3rd kit which is available to purchase from our club shop and on-line. http://www.dunstonutsfc.co.uk/shop

How would you describe your playing style?

I’d say I’m a technical player who’s comfortable on the ball, I can play in midfield or at right back. I like to receive the ball deep and screen the defence when out of possesion and I’d also say that I’m a hard worker.

How did your move to Dunston come about?

I knew John McMillan (Head researcher for Football Manager in Gibraltar) he’d contacted the club before I moved over and put me in touch with Malcolm James and I was then offered a trial at the club.