By Richard Cawley
LAWRIE Wilson has admitted Charlton made the right decision to release him as a kid - because it allowed him to learn what it takes to be a success as a footballer.
The 24-year-old completed his return to The Valley after a deal for just under £400,000 was agreed with Stevenage Borough.
Wilson, released by the Addicks in 2009, has a refreshing attitude, something that seems often to be present in a player that has fought successfully against adversity.
He had to eventually drop all the way to Conference football with Stevenage to get his career motoring again.
And he dislocated his ankle and broke his leg in three places following a bad tackle in a game against Rushden & Diamonds in 2009 - keeping him out of action for nine months.
Now he is back at The Valley after helping the unfashionable Hertfordshire outfit’s rise to League One.
“It’s really nice being around the place again as a pro - a first-team player,” said Wilson. “I’ve learned about football and grown up a lot.
“When you are released you wish you had been given a chance but looking back now I can see I wasn’t ready.
“I’ve had to go away and learn the basics, start from the bottom. I don’t take things for granted. I’ve had success on the way, which is nice.”
http://www.slp.co.uk/Sport.cfm?id=24940&headline=Lawrie Wilson: Charlton were right to let me go
Comments
Everytime someone has moaned about a player being let go young and then climbing back up the ladder Scoham has pointed out how sometimes players need to drop down to get games and realise what the game is about.
Congratulations to Lawrie though for staying in the Division
I also think Bolton will struggle this season based on there transfer activity so far this summer.
Wonder if he remains this self-aware/honest 3 years on? A reasonable pro but too many gaps in his ability at age 27 for him to hold down a 2nd division place.
... he was briefly alright,
but it all went to shite,
now Bolton is the Wilson blunderland...
Both very good guys & totally approachable to fans.
Good luck lads.