Comment: How Adam Dawson could go from villain to hero in AFC Telford promotion push
In November, his name was mud and no-one on the New Bucks Head terraces really wanted to see sight of him again.
But now Adam Dawson could be one of the flair players who fires AFC Telford United to the play-offs this season, writes Jonny Drury.
The well-travelled wideman, still just 26, made a sensational return ahead of Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Boston United – and is set to play a part in tonight’s crucial home clash against Darlington, whether from the start or the bench.
If you had asked any Bucks fan who they would see coming through the door to aid their promotion push, Dawson’s name would have been the last on their lips. It is safe to say Dawson left under somewhat of a cloud back in November.
In a fans’ forum, boss Gavin Cowan revealed all about how the winger was less than impressed at seeing little game time and moved to Chester.
Telford complained of an illegal approach, more on the principal of it than actually seeking any punishment for Chester.
The border side refuted it and the matter went away.
Dawson had a frosty reception from travelling fans in the 2-0 defeat in December, and that was the last they thought they would see of Dawson this campaign.
He then rocked up at Macclesfield in League Two, but has been unable to play because he has already featured for two clubs this season.
That is part of the season why he has ended up back in Shropshire, but it certainly won’t be the only reason.
Cowan would not have brought Dawson back in had he thought the winger would upset an apple cart that is heading for a glorious end to the campaign.
Dawson has apologised for the way he left, and directly to the supporters – a sure-fire way to get yourself back in their good books. He made a cameo appearance at Boston and did show in his first spell with the club what he can do.
He may be well travelled, but has played for some good sides and unlocked defences at will earlier in the campaign.
It is safe to say he is an impact player more than anything, but there is no doubt the impact he can bring from the bench.
His season has now gone full circle, and he now has a chance to turn things around from how they were in November.
He was certainly in the bad books of the Telford faithful in November. But football fans can be quick to forget if a player starts impacting games and scoring. Fire them to the play-offs and all will be forgotten.
