Zakuani: Page ticked all the boxes for me

By Peter Westwood

New signing Gabriel Zakuani says he can’t wait to get going for Northampton Town.

The DR Congo international agreed a deal at Sixfields last week, signing from Peterborough United and says he is excited by the season ahead.

“This is a new challenge for me and I’m hungry and ready to go,” said the 30 year old.

“I’m a dedicated old fashion defender and I hope the supporters here get to see the best of me.

Zakuani was a prominent figure in Posh’s defence in the seven years that he spent at London Road, and after being released said it was manager Rob Page who influenced his decision to choose the Cobblers over other interested clubs.

“The Gaffer has shown faith in me in bringing me here, I’m here to do a job and I want to be a part of the success that this club has started.

“When I spoke to the manager he told me about his plans and he just ticked all the boxes for me.

“I know what I’ve got to add here and I can bring a lot of experience. I like to do a lot on and off the pitch and I expect to bring a lot to the table.

“I look forward to putting my body on the line for the club and making sure that we keep clean sheets.

“I’m here to be successful and hopefully I will hit the ground running.

“I saw what this club did last year and the kind of characters we have here are the type you want to be on board with.

“It is a big step up to League One and there are some massive clubs in this league but hopefully with the spirit the squad has from last season and a little bit of momentum we should be able to compete.”

The League Two champions open their account for 2016/17 with a home tie against Steven Pressley’s Fleetwood Town.