Romelle Donovan’s first interview | OneFootball

Brentford B’s latest recruit Romelle Donovan feels joining the Bees will be the perfect way to continue his development, after signing a loan deal which keeps him in west London until the end of the season.

Donovan, who arrives from Birmingham City, has linked up with his new team-mates in Portugal following his Deadline Day move, with Brentford B currently participating in this year’s Atlantic Cup.

The 18-year-old says early conversations with head coach Neil MacFarlane helped him make the decision to join the club.

“I’m buzzing, I’m over the moon to be here. Brentford have shown interest for a little while and I’m finally here so I can’t wait to get going,” said Donovan.

“The manager speaks highly about hard work and he seems like he’s a person that I can talk to if I need him; I can tell he will be good for my development.”

The youngster’s impressive performances for Birmingham Under-21s saw him earn him a chance with their first team, with Donovan making his Championship debut for the Blues last season at 16 years old.

The tricky winger earned a call-up to England’s U18 squad in May 2024, where he went on to score on his debut during a 4–2 win over Northern Ireland at St George's Park.

Four months later, Donovan went on to receive a call-up to the England U19s for friendly matches in Croatia, making his debut for that age group in a 2–2 draw with Italy.

The new Brentford arrival discussed his rise at Birmingham and how proud he was receiving youth caps for his country.

He said: “I’ve been at Birmingham since a very young age - it’s been a massive part of my career and they have made me who I am today. Making my debut at 16 was a surreal moment and I was over the moon that it happened.

“Playing for my country for the first time was another incredibly proud moment for me: putting the England shirt on with all your family there is always a great feeling.”

Donovan explained how he looks forward to meeting his new team-mates and feels joining the side in Portugal gives him a great chance to get to know everyone away from the pitch.

He continued: “It’s been a mad rush, but I’m just pleased to be here. Obviously we are playing in a cup together and rooming with each other, so I think that’s the best way to break the ice and be intertwined with the group.”