Cardiff City right-back Chris Gunter made history last week and capped a remarkable season when he became the Bluebirds youngest ever senior international.
Gunter’s appearance in Wales 2-2 draw with New Zealand at the Racecourse Ground led to him breaking the 48 year old club record held by Graham Moore who made his debut aged 18 against England in 1959.
LFE Online caught up with Chris to gather his thoughts on what has been an eventful year.
A boyhood Bluebirds fan Gunter realised a dream when he made his first team debut as right-back on the 22 August 2006 against Barnet in the English League Cup before going on to make a further 15 senior appearances last term.
In March of 2007 Gunter came to national prominence when picking up the Championship Apprentice of the Year Award
Gunter states:
“I was pleased to win the award and this accolade reflects the good two years I’ve had at Cardiff City as an Apprentice. Hopefully it also shows people that Cardiff City is a good place to develop as a footballer and as a person.”
Steve Ellis, Head of Education and Welfare at Cardiff City is delighted with his young charge and believes Gunter deserves all the plaudits he gets:
“Chris has worked terrifically hard this season both with his football and education. He would often come back for one to one sessions to catch up on his college work and I can only commend the way he has adapted over the season to ensure he has been successful in all elements of the ASE framework as well as with his football.”
Gunter has gone from strength to strength this season culminating in his inclusion in the senior Welsh squad for the recent international matches. However the level headed Cardiff youngster is taking everything in his stride. He states:
“I’ve been involved with the U21’s previously so it was really pleasing to be invited into the full squad. The team for the New Zealand game was announced on the Friday afternoon and it was great feeling to be named in the side with so many experienced and established players. I think I’ll really benefit from the whole experience especially training and playing with outstanding players like Ryan Giggs.”
With an eye already on next season, Gunter is determined to continue his development and stake a claim for a regular spot in the Cardiff City first team,
“I can’t wait for pre-season I’m relishing the opportunity of coming back and trying to prove to the gaffer that I’m worth a place in his best eleven and establishing myself as the first choice right back.”
