Interview

'I'm more confident, I can feel my knee is better'

Having exploded on to the scene last season, Gabriel Martinelli has had to be much more patient this time around as he looks to get back to full fitness.

Our Brazilian forward is working hard to return before the end of the year from a knee injury, but he is optimistic about what the future holds.

“I’m feeling very well, I’m regaining confidence and I can feel my knee is better,” he said. “After an injury like this you are kind of scared to force the knee again but the past couple of weeks it has been fine and soon I can start training with the ball.

“I think we have an excellent squad and along with Mikel’s forward thinking and winning mentality we can carry on doing well. 

“We are playing well and training well, everyone wants to win and we are all giving everything. I believe this season is very promising. We won trophies last season and I believe we can win this season again and also qualify for the Champions League.”

Martinelli has seen two more of his Brazilian compatriots join the squad over the summer, and he is sure they will be excellent additions.

“I’m very happy, it's good to have players from your country that speak your language,” he said. “I already knew David Luiz and now it is great to meet Willian and Gabi. 

“I only just met them but I can already tell they are great guys, we are always laughing and it is a great environment to be in. They are playing well and giving their best too. I think they have a lot to offer to this club on and off the pitch.”