Brentford v Bournemouth programme: Kevin O’Connor writes a letter to his younger self in final issue of 2025 | OneFootball

During a year of change for Brentford, Kevin O’Connor’s loyalty and longevity has been more valuable than ever.

O’Connor joined the club as a schoolboy in 1997 and went on to play 501 games for the Bees. He has since become a key member of the club’s first-team coaching staff.

In a letter to his 17-year-old self, which will be published in your Brentford v Bournemouth match programme, O’Connor reflects on the moments and people that have shaped his life in football.

Read an excerpt below.

When you return in April, Brentford are fighting for a place in the Championship.

Ultimately, it all comes down to a home game against Doncaster on the final day of the season.

Brentford begin the afternoon in third, two points behind Doncaster in second. Our task is simple: win and we’re promoted.

In the fourth minute of stoppage-time, with the game still goalless, Toumani Diagouraga is brought down in the box and the referee points to the penalty spot.

Now, this is an incident you’re going to get asked about a lot.

Before the previous game against Hartlepool, Uwe will say to you and Trotta: “One of you two can take the penalties today.” That’s how it is left.

You’re ready to take the penalty. Nervous as hell, of course, because this kick is going to define Brentford’s season - but you’re ready.

You’ve done your research on Doncaster’s goalkeeper Neil Sullivan, so you have a good idea which way he is going to dive.

On your walk up from centre-half, Trotts has the ball. You understand why he wants to take the penalty, but you’re his captain and you expect him to give the ball to you.

He doesn’t.

Trotts keeps saying, “I’m taking it, I’m taking it!”

Clayton Donaldson steps in: “Just leave it, just leave it!”

What do I do? Do I wrestle the ball off him or do I leave it?

In that moment, you leave it. It’s a s*** situation, and you decide it’s not going to do you or him any good to create more of a scene.

Trotta’s penalty hits the crossbar and Doncaster race up the other end to score a late winner and consign us to the play-offs.

Brentford beat Swindon over two legs to reach Wembley, but the season ends with a 2-1 defeat to Yeovil.

A lot of people will have their say on the Doncaster game. The truth will become twisted and some of the comments will anger you.

Ultimately, people can think whatever they want.

Your regret is not taking that penalty. That was your moment – it should have been you.

Also in your Brentford v Bournemouth programme

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