Clarke Oduor says patience and perseverance are paying off as he looks to build momentum heading into the final stages of the season.
The midfielder has returned to the starting line-up in recent weeks, producing impressive performances as the Mariners continue their push towards the play-off places.
Here’s everything he had to say ahead of the next fixture…
On returning to the team
Oduor admitted it has been a positive period both personally and collectively after getting back out on the pitch.
“Yeah, it’s been good,” he said.
“Obviously just getting back playing, and then the biggest thing is the results as well.
“We’ve picked up some good results along the way.”
On being rewarded for hard work
After a challenging spell out of the side, Oduor was pleased to see his efforts in training translate into opportunities on matchdays.
“Yeah, definitely,” he said.
“Everybody wants to play, and when you’ve not played for a long time, you just keep working in training.
“When you finally get that opportunity, it’s good.”
On building confidence
Having started consecutive matches, the midfielder believes he is beginning to find his rhythm.
“Yeah, definitely,” he said.
“For me it’s just about continuing, focusing on the next game and giving the best performances I can.”
On finding rhythm
Oduor highlighted the importance of consistent game time in helping him perform at his best.
“I think the biggest thing in football is getting into a rhythm,” he explained.
“Especially for a player like me who likes to get on the ball.
“Now I’m getting that, it’s about continuing and giving everything I can.”
On his work rate
The midfielder’s energy and presence across the pitch have not gone unnoticed in recent performances.
“Yeah, the legs are feeling it a bit,” he smiled.
“But there’s a big couple of games left, so I’ll keep going.”
On personal development
Reflecting on a season that has tested him, Oduor believes he has grown both on and off the pitch.
“I think it’s about resilience and patience,” he said.
“It’s hard when you’re waiting to play, but I think that’s helped me develop as a person.”
On the win over Crewe Alexandra
Oduor described the recent victory over a fellow promotion contender as a significant result.
“It was difficult,” he said.
“Playing against a team in the same situation as you, going for the play-offs, is always massive.
“To come out with a win was big for us.”
On the run in
With every game carrying added importance, Oduor says the squad are fully focused on taking things one step at a time.
“All the games we have left are going to be massive,” he said.
“We just need to focus on each one as it comes and keep going.”
On facing Chesterfield
Looking ahead to another tough test, Oduor is expecting a challenging encounter against a possession-based side.
“We know they keep the ball pretty well,” he said.
“For us it’s about picking our moments and being disciplined.
“We can’t go at every opportunity, we’ve got to choose the right times.”
On focusing on Town’s approach
Despite the challenge, the midfielder believes the key lies in concentrating on the Mariners’ own performance.
“It’s not straightforward, but we just need to focus on us,” he said.
“If we go there and turn up, it shouldn’t matter as much what they do.”
On the role of the supporters
Oduor also highlighted the importance of the fans as the team head into another crucial fixture.
“They play a massive role,” he said.
“They’ve been great all season, especially in the last couple of games.
“We’ll definitely need them again and hopefully we can give them something to shout about.”
On international support
After representing Kenya, Oduor says the backing from supporters back home has provided an extra boost.
“It’s always good to see that,” he said.
“It gives you that extra bit of motivation.”
Focused, determined, and growing in confidence, Clarke Oduor is ready to play his part as the Mariners look to maintain momentum in the race for promotion.
You can watch Clarke’s full pre-match interview with the club media here:
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