Oumar Solet was the latest guest on Udinese Tonight, the day after the six-goal thriller with Lazio in the capital. The defender spoke about that match, his and Udinese's season, and his style of play, among other things.
The first topic was of course Monday's 3-3 draw.
“It was an enjoyable game. We wanted to win it but that's how football goes. Still, a point away to Lazio is not bad.”
Oumar revealed that he had predicted Kingsley Ehizibue's goal.
“Before the game he was telling me that he hadn't scored yet this year and I told him he would score. I'm happy for him – it was a cracking goal.”
The defender then commented on Udinese's season so far.
“We're having a good season. We can do better than last year. Our aim is to get as many points as possible. The coach has spoken about getting at least 50. We play every game to win. We're a better team this year: we have more options in midfield and attack. With five or six points we can make it a good season.
He also assessed his own performances this year – his first full season at the club having joining in January 2025.
“I'm pleased with my season, although I can always do better. There are four games left to finish as strong as possible. For now I'd give myself a 7/10. As a team, the fact that we've conceded fewer goals than last season shows we've made progress in defence and I'm happy about that. On a personal level, I think I've improved certain areas of my game, like the way I defend in the box and my leadership skills.”
Solet has certainly caught the eye with another aspect of his play – carrying the ball out of defence, which some observers consider risky.
“I'm aware and sure about what I'm doing when I'm on the ball. I don't take on opponents just for the sake of it. I want to help the team by bringing the ball out. I don't like making mistakes, so if I do something I have to do it well. If I lose the ball, it really gets to me. I want to be a clean player. I always play the ball carefully and with confidence.”
Indeed, the Frenchman often looks more like a midfielder – a position he admits he quite fancies.
“I would like to play in midfield and I've told the boss! I'm happy to play in defence but in future I can see myself playing in midfield too. For now I don't want to annoy the captain!”