Zak Swanson says testing himself against Leroy Sane will only improve him as a player.
Our versatile defender was tasked with facing against the Germany international and delivered a mature performance against him, despite our 4-2 defeat to the Citizens.
We spoke to Swanson after the match and this is what he said:
on the defeat…
It was a tough game against a top side, but we created a lot of chances and pressed them well. In the first half, we were probably the better side and I think we had the better chances. When we went in at 1-1, we were very confident that we were going to go on and win the game and we took the lead. I think the goal we conceded wasn’t the greatest and it’s disappointing but we’ve just got to bounce back.
on facing Leroy Sane tonight…
I think to play against a player like that in Leroy Sane, he does it in the Premier League week-in week-out and he shows he’s one of the best players in the league. To play against him and test myself against him is the best thing to do and it’s how you get better and how you improve. If you play against the best players week-in, week-out that’s the best way to improve. Personally, I felt I did well tonight.
on playing alongside first team regulars…
They just bring confidence to us as a side because they’ve played at the top level. It brings a boost to us and if we can up our game to play with them and we’ve been able to train with them a lot so we’re kind of used to playing with them. When they come in they slot in very well.
on playing at Emirates Stadium…
It’s the best thing for an Arsenal fan like me. We’ve played here three times this season so I think it gives me the belief and focus to make it a regular thing.
on his aims until the end of the season…
We just want to get as many wins as we can but also keep putting in good performances. We’re still in the club so I think with that game on Tuesday if we win and get to the semi-finals, it’ll be a massive boost to us.
on the PL International Cup…
I think it’s the best thing for us to bounce back against Monaco. I think they will be another top side, it’ll be tough game so for us to go on and beat them will be good for us and it’s the best way to test us.
By Sam Cox
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