Player in Focus: James Bell (Nantlle Vale)

Please tell us which clubs you have played for

I have had spells at Caernarfon Town, Rhyl, Glantraeth and Conwy (although I got injured before kicking a ball!) As well as my current club Nantlle Vale.

How do you feel Nantlle Vale are performing this season?

Honestly, I feel like we’ve been underachieving with the squad we have, particularly in the league. We’ve shown in the cup games what we’re capable of as a team, and it’s vital we find that consistency in the new year to climb the table and keep progressing in the cups.

What do you think the team is capable of achieving this season?

I think we’re more than capable of winning a trophy this year, and that is definitely one of my personal aims for the season.

In the league I think it’s a case of trying to improve on last year and finish in the top 4.

Which team you have played so far has impressed you the most?

No one stands out to me but I’ve been quite impressed with the league generally. If you’re not up for it on the day then you can get punished regardless of who the opponents are.

What honours have you won in the game?

I was lucky enough to be part of some top quality Caernarfon Town sides, where we won the FAW Trophy, the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance title, the league cup and the Cookson Cup.

I feel as if I learnt a lot in my time there, with players such as Yws Gwynedd really taking me under their wing.

Best game ever played in?

The best game I’ve played in has to be when we beat Bangor City 1-0 under the lights at Belle Vue in my time at Rhyl. It was a real hard fought derby victory and the crowd really felt like the 12th man that night, it was a great experience.

Hardest opponent faced?

Harry Wilson when we played Liverpool U21s in a pre season friendly at Rhyl. He was so sharp, I felt as if I always read what he wanted to do with the ball, but he did everything so sharply he still skipped past me regardless!

Most talented team-mate?

We have a lot of good players at the club, the one that stands out technically is Tom Mahoney, and Ashley Owen has been excellent this season.

But for me it’s Sion Williams. Having played with him in midfield I really appreciate what he gives to the team in terms of his work rate and the way he drives forward.

Who do you see as potential champions of Welsh Alliance Division One this season?

I feel as if it’s a two-horse race between Holyhead and Denbigh, I would probably put my money on Holyhead if I had to as that’s a really tough place to go and play away from home and that could give them the edge.

What are your future ambitions as a footballer?

Having struggled with injury problems, my ambitions are to play and enjoy my football for as long as physically possible. Having been out for long periods of time, you really appreciate just being able to play on a Saturday afternoon!

Best country visited?

Norway, I was blown away by how clean it was. I really think the Nordic model is an example as the way forward for other countries around the world.

Finest after-match venue?

Clwb Bach, Penygroes!

Which is best – Pobol y Cwm or Coronation Street?

Coronation Street

Have any members of your family achieved anything notable in sport?

My brother (Daniel) had a lot of success in football before he had his injury troubles, and I feel like he’s capable of achieving a lot in Welsh football as a coach.

What item of importance to you could you survive without for the least time?

My mobile phone, use it daily and for so many different things I think I would struggle without it!

Who’s the funniest character in the dressing room at Nantlle Vale?

We have a lot of them!! I’d probably go for one of the coaches Midge, he has a funny relationship with a few of the players.

Do you visit the gym? If so, what is your favourite piece of equipment

I do, and although I don’t enjoy it, the bike helps a lot with my recovery after games.

How do you feel Ryan Giggs is performing so far as Wales manager?

We’ve reached the Euros so I don’t think you can doubt him. I think towards the end of the qualifying campaign he made some good decisions with selection of players, and it paid off!

Are you involved in any other sports apart from football?

I’m not, although I’m a big fan of the NBA and UFC.

What would be your dream Christmas present?

Arsenal recently did a remake of the classic bruised banana kit from the 91/93 season, so hopefully my wife sees this before Christmas!