Jack Bodenham talks of benefits of New Saints loan move
New Saints defender Jack Bodenham has said he’s benefitted from his loan spell at the club.
Bodenham won a Welsh Premier League and Welsh Cup double after joining The New Saints on loan from Cardiff City in January.
He replaced fellow loanee Ben Cabango who spent the first half of the season on loan at Park Hall.
Bodenham said: “I’ve learnt things both on and off the field. On the field, definitely, more aerially, more streetwise, playing against older men, whereas in the 23s I’m playing against the same age as me, and same experience as me.
“It’s been more than valuable, the 4-5 months I’ve been here, stepping into senior football, it’s been a great opportunity for me and all the lads have taken me into the group really well, so I couldn’t ask for much more
“I’ve definitely gained a lot of valuable experience for me.”
In total, Bodenham accumulated ten appearances for Scott Ruscoe’s side this season. He was part of the backline which conceded just 16 goals all season.
The 19-year-old will return to Cardiff City with senior football experience now under his belt.
“There’s loads of different aspects. Even living away from home has been a new experience for me, I’ve dealth with quite well. Look, I’m playing with top class players in this league, and they’ve been a great help.
“Hopefully I can go and kick on now from here, obvioulsy I’ve got two medals; the Welsh Premier League and the Welsh Cup which my aim was coming here.
“Hopefully now I can go and kick on to bigger and better things.
Bodenham was speaking after The New Saints won the Welsh Cup against the Connah’s Quay Nomads:
“Obviously being as young as I am, it’s a great honour to have already have on my CV. I think we earned it out there today, the bombardment we were under for a long period, but over the moon.
“It was a great atmosphere, lots of fans. Obviously we were under pressure for a lot of it, but to come away witht he trophy is the be all and end all.”
(Featured Image: Brian Jones)
