Stanley Iheanacho is back at FC Midtjylland and has made a great start with three goals in his first three test matches. Below he talks about the start and much more in a Q&A about big and small.
It’s been a good start since you returned, but how do you actually view the first few weeks?
– It’s been fantastic for me. I’m very grateful for the opportunity, and I’m constantly trying to push myself here at the start to achieve my goals and show that I deserve a central place on the team.
You finished as the top scorer in the Portuguese Liga 3 with 14 goals last season. How important is it for you to build on that streak?
– I think I’m basically still where I left off last season. At the end of last season I scored five times in a row, and now I’m doing something similar at the start. That’s important to me.
You completed two years in Portuguese football. What is the most important learning you take away from there?
– It was something different because in Midtjylland I was in the academy. The club’s culture and style of play have really taught me a lot, and I take things with me both on and off the pitch. The time in Mafra has really taught me a lot – also mentally.
Are there any specific places in your game that you have built on?
– My positioning in the box and my deep runs.
And what about the fans – what can they expect from you when you step into MCH Arena?
– You can expect goals, of course, and a player who always gives everything he has – I want to be known for the energy I bring.
Speaking of football idols, is there a player you’ve always looked up to and inspires you?
– Yes, I look up to Victor Osimhen (Nigerian national team striker who currently plays for Galatasaray, ed.). He is a fantastic guy, a fighter who has had to fight his way out of poverty. His warrior mentality is inspiring, and when he plays, he gives everything – he is so hungry to score goals. I can see a lot of things from him in myself.
– I watch his clips and all the interviews he gives. I try to learn from him and my dream is to play with him one day.
How would you describe yourself off the field?
– I like to be happy. When I’m happy, I’m on top. If I’m down, it’s easy to see. I try to surround myself with good energy, and of course it’s easiest when things are going well on the pitch.
Training camp is also about being with your teammates. Who do you share a room with?
– Beni Djé. We were also roommates in Mafra when we went on away trips and things like that. We always spend time together off the pitch.
