Olomola: 'I like it that we play like Arsenal and Southampton'

Big summer signing Olufela Olomola said Wealdstone's fluent style of play was a big factor in him choosing to join the club.

The 24-year-old was persuaded by manager Stuart Maynard to turn down offers of full-time football and join the Stones on a one-year deal with a one-year option. Olomola said the team's smooth passing and patient build-up play reminded him of the clubs where he cut his teeth as a striker: Arsenal and Southampton.

"The gaffer was a big factor in me joining," said Olomola. "He was so enthusiastic and really wanted me and explained how I'd fit in and how we'd play to my strengths. My upbringing was at Arsenal and Southampton and they play football the way it should be played and how I want to play the game, so it feels a good fit for me."

After a professional career spent at Southampton, Yeovil, Scunthorpe, Carlisle and Hartlepool, Olomola was pleased to be able to return to the city of his birth.

"I'm a local lad and Wealdstone is really close to me, so being able to live at home after a long time is a big factor," he said.

Brought in as a replacement for Josh Umerah, Olomola will lead the line for the Stones and has been handed the No.9 shirt. He said he has set himself "a target" and has a number in his mind. While he wouldn't reveal it, it will most probably be more than the seven in 21 games he got in his first spell on loan at Yeovil.

He also, like almost everyone in this hungry Stones squad, has aspirations of playing in the EFL.

"The proudest moment in my career was making my debut for Southampton," he said. "It's a memory I will cherish forever and now I want to make more memories. I got exposed to first-team football at an early age and that stood me in good stead as it showed me what it really takes to play men's football. I've had a couple of frustrating years, a lot of managers and a few injuries and now I have a clean slate and a chance to get back playing my best football."

• Interview by Will Bewsey

• Pictures by Darren Campbell

Watch Olomola on his full club debut this weekend as the Stones host Bromley in our opening game of the 2022/23 National League season.

Tickets available online HERE or via cash or card at the turnstiles! We're also running a triple bundle ticket offer, where you can get a ticket to our first three home games at last seasons prices when we host Bromley, FC Halifax Town and Yeovil Town. Click HERE for more info.