Laiith Fairnie has been flourishing at Birmingham City. The 18 year old defender has enjoyed playing for the Blues’ U21s this season, and has even recently scored a hattrick from centre back.
Dan sat down and did a quick Q&A with the former Jersey Wanderers and Grouville man.
Firstly, how did the move first come about?
I was getting a lot of general interest from lots of clubs due to playing in the England Colleges and Schoolboys sides. Birmingham were the first to come to me and offer me a trial which showed me that they saw something in me before everyone else did and were genuinely interested, and not because other clubs were calling. They were first team to offer me a contract, some of the other clubs were higher profile but I like the ethics of Birmingham and liked the players and coaches. This helped me make my decision because being happy was important to insure I play at my best.
What were your first experiences at Birmingham like?
Going to a new club is always hard and so is making new friends because you’re coming in to take someone else’s spot, but the lads and coaches saw past that and were patient helping me be myself and that means I could play with confidence. This helped me grow into the game on and off the pitch.
How has it been going so far on the pitch for you?
I’ve been playing lots of minutes in the u21s and have been playing at a high standard. The first month or two was hard in pre-season adapting to the ball speed and intensity of the game but I have improved a-lot over the past 6 months. I have been playing against some top players and with some as well which helps me get better everyday. Getting the experience to train with the first team every so often helps me realise that if I work hard enough I can be there in a couple years.
What has been your stand out experience so far?
My stand out experience so far would have to be playing against Wolves in a friendly for the first team. It was just good to get a sniff of what is possibly to come next for me. Hopefully I will get the chance to do it again because you are playing against some of the best in England.
How good would it be to train with the first team?
It would be amazing to be playing and training with the first team. Just to be in match day squads and travel is a great experience as a youngster. I understand with my position and age you don’t get very many young lads starting in the Championship week in week out but I hope to be there soon. I am willing to wait for my opportunity and take my chance when it comes whether it’s 5 minutes or 90. I just have to keep putting in performances every week and keep improving.
What do you hope the future holds for you?
I hope to get as far as possible with my career and have a long and successful career. Everyone dreams of the Premier League and I’m going to do everything I can to get myself close to the highest stage as possible. If I keep working hard and maintain humble then I can’t see why I can’t have a successful career in the game. It’s tough with the competition but it’s not easy for a reason. Otherwise everyone would be a professional footballer.
Photo Credits: Birmingham City FC
