Nelson: I played with a smile on my face

Reiss Nelson made his first Champions League start on Tuesday, and he marked the occasion with an impressive display on the wing and by assisting our only goal.

He linked up with fellow academy graduate Eddie Nketiah for our opening goal at the end of the first half, and was heavily involved throughout the game, leading the way for successful dribbles (5), duels won (12) and possession won (8).

Afterwards he was pleased with his own showing, as well playing his part in a hard-earned away draw. 

“I think my performance was good”, he said after the game. “I played with a smile on my face. That's the main thing for me. I think I could show my quality in a lot of different ways.

“I got a lot of joy in the midfield coming inside and linking up with Ed, so it was really good. And as a whole, as a team, I think it was hard at certain times because we haven’t played with each other for a long time. A lot of boys hadn't played for a long time as well. Ced, Mo, people like this. But we did well and it's good to get the point.

“It's been a long time since I've played from the start, especially in the Champions League. It's a beautiful, beautiful occasion and I haven't played in long time. So for me if I can just keep staying injury-free, that's one of my main things I said at the start of the season. If I can stay injury free, being free with my movements and when I play, I have a smile on my face, I'm sure I can do a great job.”

The winger was also delighted to contribute his second assist in the competition so far this season, laying on the goal for Nketiah.

“Yeah well that’s my guy!” he grinned. “He’s on me to try and assist him a lot so I always have it in the back of my mind if I can get an area where I know he can turn and get the shot off, I will play him and he done the business today.

“I think we can go very far,” he added. “The fans should be excited and everyone should be excited to watch us play in the next round.”