Jurgen Ekkelenkamp was this week's guest on Udinese Tonight, sandwiched between the two away games at Como and Torino.
The midfielder spoke about Saturday's defeat at the Stadio Sinigaglia, his position and his personal targets, among other things.
He begin by commenting on Udinese's game of two halves in Como: “We made too many mistakes in the first half, then we played better in the second. I had a great chance but unfortunately I didn't score it. We have ups and downs. We know we need to improve.”
Ekkelenkamp displayed his versatility by moving out to the flank in the second half.
“I enjoy playing wide but I prefer it in the centre. I'm happy to play wherever the team needs me so it's not a problem. When I play on the wing, I can get forward more easily. I think I'm both hard-working and skilful. As a midfielder you need to be versatile.”
The Dutchman switched position to accommodate Scottish youngster Lennon Miller, who came into the centre of the park.
“I enjoy playing alongside Miller. He's got great technique. He might start playing a bit more regularly now but that's a decision for the coach to make.”
Jurgen has been starting regularly himself in recent months after a difficult start to the season.
“I struggled a bit with injury at the start and I didn't feel great physically. Now I'm in good shape. We have lots of players and lots of quality in midfield. I like the competition – it makes us all better. I prefer playing centre left but since [Arthur] Atta is there I'm happy to play centre right!”
The 25-year-old scored his first goal of the season against Napoli before Christmas, a real cracker of a strike which earned the team three points. That followed another superb goal he scored against Napoli last season, in a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Maradona. Which is his favourite?
“My favourite is the one I got this season season because we won and after having two goals disallowed it felt even better. It's my best goal. I'm happy but I hope to score more goals and I think I can. My target is five for the season.”