Jamie Donley is thriving at Leyton Orient, and he knows it – the Tottenham Hotspur youngster has now opened up about his successful loan spell in League One.
Tottenham’s young playmaker has taken to League One football with confidence, adapting swiftly to the demands of senior football.
Of course, Jamie Donley has been a key figure in Richie Wellens’ side, netting six goals and providing five assists in 26 league appearances this season.
His performances have helped Orient climb into the play-off places, with the East London club currently sitting sixth in the table.
While his impact in the league has been undeniable, his stunning strike against Manchester City in the FA Cup has also put him in the spotlight.
His audacious 50-yard effort rattled the crossbar before rebounding off goalkeeper Stefan Ortega and into the net, a goal that will live long in his memory despite Orient’s eventual 2-1 defeat.
Jamie Donley embracing the Tottenham pressure
Speaking to BBC Radio London, Donley expressed his delight at how his loan spell has unfolded. The youngster has stated that he has enjoyed playing with men instead of remaining in U21 football.
He also shares the pressure that comes from going on loan as a Spurs academy graduate. He said: “I want to play in these games, I want to show everyone what I can do. People say to go out and experience men’s football instead of just playing under-21s, and now I am at this stage, I am glad I have done that.
“I have had tough moments in my career where I was not playing or even making the squad, but I have come out on the other side. Now I am playing lots of minutes, and it is turning into a successful loan for me.
“Coming from Tottenham, people expect you to be this amazing player and hit the ground running, but it is not that easy in men’s football, especially on your first loan.
“The gaffer always told me he knew the quality I had, and it was just about showing that. Luckily, I have managed to do that over the last few months.”
Donley opens up on that moment against Man City
Reflecting on his goal against Manchester City, Donley admitted it was a special moment. “Having that moment against Man City shows I can do it, that I can perform against these teams. I will see what happens next season.
“The attention I have got from it has been quite an experience. It is nice, but it does not really affect me. I just keep doing what I am doing. It was a special moment for me and the club. The support we had that day was unbelievable.”
The Tottenham loanee and his teammates suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Charlton in their last outing, but they have an opportunity to bounce back on Tuesday when they take on Rotherham.
With promotion still in their sights, the 20-year-old will be looking to continue his fine form and help push Orient towards a place in the Championship.