Ollie Banks has revealed that it was Bluebirds boss Michael Jolley’s ambitious vision for the future that was the crucial factor in his move to The Progression Solicitors Stadium.
The talented midfielder’s permanent switch from Tranmere Rovers caught many by surprise but Banks admitted that as soon as he spoke to Jolley about the switch he was sold.
Now the 28-year-old is eager to get settled in and show the kind of form which made him a fans’ favourite at Prenton Park, as Barrow look to distance themselves from the base of League Two.
“I’m very excited for a new challenge,” Banks told iFollow.
“As soon as the gaffer spoke to me, I could feel his enthusiasm and you could tell with the type of player he was looking to bring in that there was a real intent at the Club.
“I had a little look at the squad before I signed and there is a lot of quality in there – and a lot of Football League experience, especially in the middle of the park.
“It’s healthy that we have real competition for places because everyone knows you have to perform week in and week out in order to keep your shirt.
“It’s been good to come into the Club on the back of a win and you can see spirits are high and there is a bit of confidence in there so hopefully we can roll that in to next week.
“You can quickly get into a winning habit so that’s what we’ll be aiming to do.”
Banks already knows a couple of members of the Bluebirds squad in Connor Brown and Sam Hird, whilst he also played at previous clubs alongside fellow new signings Tom Davies and Jamie Devitt.
However, he admitted that it was still a relief to him that he was not the only fresh face turning up at the Club’s training ground this week.
“It’s nice to come in and not being the only new lad – it’s always a bit of a scary one no matter how old you get, it’s like the first day of school all over again,” he laughed.
“I have really enjoyed it so far this week because, as I say, it can be quite daunting, but everyone has made me feel really welcome; it’s a good, relaxed atmosphere and the staff are all brilliant.”
Fans can watch the full interview with Ollie Banks right now by signing-in to iFollow.