Transfer Interview: Dylan McGowan

Speaking exclusively to K League United from Gangwon FC's pre-season training camp in Thailand, Socceroos central defender Dylan McGowan talks about his move to K League, how he expects to fit in at Chuncheon, and what fans can expect from the former Hearts and Adelaide United man.
(image via Gangwon FC)


Adelaide-born Dylan McGowan began his career in the Scottish Premier League with Edinburgh side Heart of Midlothian where the 26-year-old went on to make over 60 appearances during his four year stay in Scotland's capital. After loan spells with East Fife and Gold Coast United, McGowan returned to his native Australia to sign for hometown club Adelaide United, winning the A-League Championship and A-League Premiership in 2015-2016 as well as the FFA Cup in 2014. After three years with The Reds, the recently capped Socceroo moved to Europe to sign for Portuguese Primeira Liga outfit Paços de Ferreira. But, having found game time hard to come by at Estadio da Mata Real, McGowan signed with K League Classic side Gangwon FC on a season long loan. But why a K League side?

How much did playing against Korean teams during your time with Adelaide United weigh into your decision to sign with Gangwon?

I have played a lot of games against Korean teams in the (AFC) Champions League and also at national junior level so I knew the standard was high. The players are always technically very good and it's a league that has a lot of respect in Asia.

What would you say are the strongest aspects of your game?

Always difficult to describe yourself as a player but I'm a centre back that was brought here because Gangwon want to play a more possession based game this season and I think my spells at Adelaide and Portugal under possession based coaches hold me in good stead for that. Obviously having played in Scotland and if you have seen me play the physicality of the game is something I enjoy.

Weaknesses?

Still have plenty of weaknesses in my game that I want to improve. Hopefully this year score a few more goals than last season, even though I won the golden boot at Adelaide with a measly five!

What was your reason for going on loan from Paços de Ferreira?

Had to fight to get myself out of Portugal and go play games because I'm 26 and want to be playing week in week out. I was obviously involved with the National Team at the Confederations Cup in June so hopefully playing week in week out puts my best foot forward with Australia as well.

Where do you think you would be best utilized with Gangwon?

As I mentioned earlier I think I will be used as a centre back and be asked to start the play, and play to passes into midfield. My main job as a defender is to keep goals out and I know Gangwon suffered a little in that department last season.

What should K League fans expect from you?

I think Kleague fans will hopefully enjoy the way I play I'm really looking forward to the season and testing myself at this level.

What’s your favorite/best moment in Asian football so far?

Best moment so far in Asia would be scoring and beating Jeju in Jeju. Nobody expected us to go there and win with a young team. Also the AFC U19 Asian cup when we went all the way to the final.