Knott back on track

Ahead of Gillingham’s clash with Sheffield United live on Sky Sports 1 HD this Sunday, Gills midfielder Billy Knott discusses his move to the club, memories of Paolo Di Canio and his role in England’s 2011 Under-20 World Cup campaign…

Billy Knott’s back home. It’s been a long journey to get there for the young man who joined Sunderland’s academy at 17. The Canvey Island-born midfielder subsequently spent time at Bradford but he’s down south once more following a summer switch to Gillingham.

“It was an easy choice even though I had options,” the 23-year-old tells Sky Sports. “It’s the right place for me. It’s been good with a new bunch of lads. I’ve settled in really well.

“I only live in Canvey Island which is 45 minutes away so I’m with my family now. Last season was a difficult one for me with the passing of my grandpa. It was a tough year. But I’m in more familiar surroundings now and there are a load of southern lads so it’s easier.”

It’s not that his time at Bradford didn’t have its high points. There was one particular volley in a cup tie against rivals Leeds United that will live long in the memory for the club’s fans and he remained a popular figure with the supporters until the end.

“It was good up there and the fans were brilliant,” adds Knott, who scored eight goals in 79 games for Bradford. “They stuck by me even when I wasn’t playing. With the gaffer that wasn’t picking me there, Phil Parkinson, it just got a bit frustrating.

“It was brilliant in the first year at Bradford but in the second year I wasn’t really playing so obviously you start missing home and stuff a bit more. Being back home and seeing friends most weeks and family every day I feel more relaxed.”

The hope is that with a run in the side and the right support, Knott can tap into the potential that once saw him play for England at the 2011 Under-20 World Cup in Colombia. In fact, not only did Knott play in that tournament but he was one of the stars for his country.

In a squad that also included the likes of Jack Butland and Saido Berahino, FIFA’s technical report singled him out as England’s outstanding outfield player, describing him as …

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