Michael Olarewaju was originally signed by Dartford boss Ady Pennock on the evening of last season’s defeat at Billericay Town. His arrival coincided with a turning point in the club’s fortunes, as the Darts went on a league run with just one defeat in 23 league games.

Once Michael had overcome a few injury setbacks, he soon settled into the Dartford side and went on to make 28 appearances (24 starts) and scored his solitary goal in the 3-1 loss at Lewes late in the campaign.

Having become an integral member of Dartford’s defensive unit, it was vital that Ady retained the 29-year-old centre-half. And despite receiving several enticing offers during the summer, the big defender decided to remain at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park.

In another positive move, Ady then named him club captain after previous skipper Josh Hill retired at the close of last season. It’s a decision which has delighted Michael:

“I’m buzzing to be honest and looking forward to the season starting. It’s an honour to be captain this year, I’m well pleased that the gaffer sees me as being fit for the role.

“I spoke with Ady before signing, as I wanted to be sure that we had a squad capable of going a step further this season. And I believe he’s done that by adding some great signings to an already great squad. I believe we have a team that can go on and get promotion back to the National League South. Our chances are very good.”

With the addition of Dan Smith to an already prolific Darts’ attack comprising of Callum Jones, Olly Box, Eddie Dsane, and young starlet Gabe Campbell, scoring goals isn’t a problem for the team. But, Michael’s focus lies elsewhere:

“I want to do better on the clean sheets this season. We got fourteen in the league last term, I reckon we can do better than that! I thrive on keeping clean sheets! If you watch me play, you’ll see that I thrive on the aggressive side of the game. The more aggressive it gets, the more you’ll see me smiling because I love it, and those clean sheets are my pride and joy really.”

Focused on registering more than fourteen clean sheets in the Isthmian Premier League is an ambitious target. But with Michael marshalling a defence that includes George Whitefield, Luther Williams, Sam Odaudu, Samuel Okoye, and new signings Ben Frempah, Sam Smith, and goalkeeper Jonny Henly, the target is achievable.

And, with a new fitness regime focusing on higher standards of fitness and training, Michael is chomping at the bit to get going.

“I love it, and I also do extra training in the gym during the week! I love playing football and love being a centre-half, it brings out the best in me and it’s all I know. It’s such a privilege to play.

“I’m 29 now, but I don’t feel it! I believe I’ve got a lot more years in me and a lot more to give. My objective is to play at the highest level possible. I still want to become a pro and work my way into the EFL, I believe that’s entirely attainable.”

Being 29 means that Michael is one of the more senior players within the Dartford squad, just one factor that makes him the perfect choice to be the captain. But what else does he bring to the table?

“I bring heart. It’s something you can’t buy. You either have it or you don’t. I believe that’s what sets me apart from other players. You can have similar speeds, strengths, or heights, but I believe I stand out with a high degree of heart.

“I also bring togetherness to the team. Last season, I said to the players that we are our brothers’ keepers. Whether on the pitch, off the pitch, or around the stadium, every single day, we look after each other. If you share that (Dartford) shirt, you’re my brother.”

Michael loves on-pitch duels. It’s one of his strengths, as is talking and motivating those around him. He’s also extremely competitive on the pitch, something which some say he’s too aggressive:

“Maybe a weakness of mine is that I can be too aggressive, but I like the word competitive, I’ll take that!”

Like some of his peers, he’s also had to deal with some of the biggest challenges that a footballer has to face, namely injuries. Michael has been extremely unlucky with injuries in the recent past, and has suffered several bad ones. But he tries to keep his body at its prime, yet not veer too far one way or the other. He keeps the balance right. He never forgets why he plays the sport because, it’s taught him one valuable life lesson:

“The one thing I’ve learned from football is the ‘get up and go again’ factor, simple as that. I’ve had so many setbacks, both on and off the pitch with injuries or whatever, that I’ve learned to just get up and go again each time.

“With football at this level, I have to get my sleep pattern balanced and begin getting my waters on board on Thursdays. Matchdays start on Thursdays for me, what with all the training, preparations, etc…

“And it doesn’t just stop when the ref blows the final whistle. Football doesn’t stop when the gaffer says training is done. You take it home with you, the toll on your body and the emotional strain. Sometimes it’s hard to be emotionally available at home, which is a tough thing for the family. I’d say that’s the biggest challenge of being a football player.”

Another huge factor in this age is the impact of social media. People who don’t even attend games are too quick to judge players after bad results, heaping insults and derogatory remarks at the touch of a button. It’s a trait which is totally unacceptable in any walk of life, let alone sport. Thankfully, Michael’s wife shields him from any negativity online, whilst sharing the more positive comments with him, which really helps his mental health. That doesn’t mean that Michael isn’t aware of it, but he has no problem with those who judge his performances fairly:

“The moment you cross that white line onto the football pitch, you’re being judged. Whether you’re carrying an injury or not doesn’t matter, you’re being judged as soon as you cross that white line. If you’re not pulling your weight or I’m not pulling my weight, get off the pitch and let someone else do it. Even as club captain, I stand by that statement.”

That’s good advice. And Michael has further advice for any young aspiring footballer:

“Work hard and seek out the best counsel. I have a good network of people around me now, but I didn’t earlier in my career. I think that there are lessons I would have learnt if I’d had the right counsel, be they coaches, people that play the game, and people who want what’s best for you. So, seek the right counsel.”

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I get a pray in, asking God to protect me and the boys out on the pitch. I leave it all in God’s hands.

Favourite footballer?
John Terry

Favourite football team?
Arsenal

Favourite football moment?
Years ago I was at Tottenham and my first game was against Chelsea, and we totally destroyed them!

Biggest role model?
My Dad.

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
St Albans City.

Who are your biggest supporters?
My wife and little daughter. I’d also say my young son but he’s not talking just yet, but I know he’ll be my supporter!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a bit of a big friendly, gentle giant.

What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Basketball or swimming.

Who will win the Premier League this season?
I think it’ll be a tight race this year, but Arsenal will win it.