Winger Aaron Rowe has issued a warning to League 2 defenders. The quick-footed 23-year-old, who had an impressive season on loan at Crewe and narrowly missed out in the play-off final, is eager to start fresh with Gillingham.
Rowe said, “Defenders will have to do a lot of running and quick footwork. I am a tricky player, so let’s see how they manage. My plan is no risk, expecting mistakes and lost balls, but it’s all about the reaction. I like to play freely and do what I need to do.”
Last weekend, Rowe intercepted a Southend defender to create a goal on the counter-attack and aims to stay ahead of his opponents. “I like it when they don’t expect me to press. The defender thought he had beaten me, but I took the chance to press and steal the ball. Starting a counter-attack and getting the goal was satisfying. There’s no giving up.”
Rowe, originally from Hackney, played for Leyton Orient before joining Huddersfield Town in 2018. He is happy to be back in the south, closer to his family, who will be able to watch his games. “I have settled in well. The team is great, and it’s a good club in a good area, closer to home. Having my family at the games, especially my dad, is a bonus. He’s supported me from the start, making many sacrifices, and I feel like I owe him.”
Rowe is versatile, capable of playing out wide or as a No.10 behind the main striker, as demonstrated in a recent match. “I played in several positions last season. As long as I’m playing and can impact the game, that’s all that matters.”
With the season opener against Carlisle United on August 10 approaching, Rowe is ready for the challenge. The team has one more pre-season test against National League side Woking this Saturday. Despite the short break after finishing the campaign at Wembley, Rowe and his teammate Jayden Clarke have been preparing early. “A little pre pre-season is necessary to avoid struggling and falling behind in pre-season. I’m feeling good,” he said.
