Callum Brittain had a rather unique start to his career – but believes it gave him the platform to kick on in English football.
Brittain started out in MK Dons’ Academy ranks and was given a rare opportunity to head on loan to Iceland as part of his development.
The versatile full-back spent several months at Throttur, which helped him break into the Dons’ first team squad upon his return.
He went on to make more than 100 appearances for the club and also represented England at Under-20 level before heading to Barnsley in 2020.
“It was probably the best thing I have ever done,” Brittain beamed. “I was 17 at the time and the gaffer, Karl Robinson, said he liked the player I was but that I needed to develop quickly to get into the first team.
“He said there was an opportunity to play in Iceland over the summer and get some experience in the men’s game.
“There were a lot of players over there who were really good and as a 17-year-old, going into a different country and living on my own, it was something I really embraced and helped me make that step up.
“As soon as I came back, I had that confidence to kick on. I loved my time over there.
“I am glad it was only three months because it was tough! But I am proud that I did it and grateful that I got the opportunity.”
In addition to the minutes he received on the pitch, the experience taught Brittain plenty about life off it.
Brittain in action for MK Dons (Image: PA)
“It was crazy, I was a bit like ‘Iceland, what’s over there?’ I just thought it was volcanoes,” he grinned.
“It is a beautiful place. You can do the whole city in three or four days so you can imagine three months got a bit samey.
“But I really enjoyed it, getting in that first team environment and experiencing men’s football for the first time was a good opportunity.”
Rovers currently have a number of Academy players out on loan at various levels, although nothing quite as drastic as moving to Iceland.
“I think it is the best thing you can do at a young age,” Brittain insisted. “Obviously, Academy football is really good in terms of learning your trade, developing, having the freedom to play games and work on your technical ability, tactics.
“But nothing prepares you for men’s football. At 17 years old – playing against a 30-year-old who has played hundreds of games – that experience and learning from other players, it is the best thing you can do.
“If I was ever to give advice to a young player it would be to go and experience men’s football, no matter what level it is at, because you will only learn and get better.
“I was more confident going into the changing room full of men and using those experiences on the pitch.
“I think it is confidence more than anything, knowing you have been in that sort of environment and are ready to kick on.
“I was hungry, I just wanted to play football and when I got back, the gaffer at the time gave me confidence to really join in with the first team and I took my chance when it came.”
The 26-year-old has become an important member of the Rovers squad since his arrival in East Lancashire a couple of years ago.
Brittain was an almost ever-present figure in the Championship last season and has made 11 appearances so far this term.
He recently marked his 300th appearance for the club against Sheffield United and hopes there are plenty more still to come.
“I am very grateful to be able to play and hopefully I can play another 300,” he reflected.
“It has been amazing to play football and be in this environment every day. I have loved experience I have had, even learning in difficult times.
“I have played in League Two, League One, the Championship and hopefully I will play in the Premier League one day.
“It is all different experiences and challenges, working your way up, and I am very proud to now be at a club like Blackburn.”
