Sead Haksabanovic is taking the opportunities he is being given by manager Manuel Pellegrini.
After a frustrating first season in English football, the Montenegrin teenager has made the most of a fresh start under Pellegrini, playing a central role in West Ham United’s pre-season victories over Aston Villa and Ipswich Town.
At Portman Road, it was the attacking midfielder’s clever pass which sent his teammate and close friend Marko Arnautovic clear to score and secure a narrow 2-1 win over the Tractor Boys.
Having featured in all five pre-season fixtures, Haksabanovic is understandably pleased to have been involved by the new boss and is now targeting further chances to impress in the Premier League.
“I’m feeling happy that I’m in the squad and it feels good in training to be alongside these players as they take care of me, which is good,” the 19-year-old began. “Last year didn’t go so well for me in the first-team squad, but now it’s all about improving and showing myself.
“It’s important that I show the quality like I did with the pass for Marko and my involvement in our third goal at Aston Villa, as this is what I need for my confidence. Now I need to just keep on going.”
It’s important that I show the quality like I did with the pass for Marko and my involvement in our third goal at Aston Villa, as this is what I need for my confidence
Sead Haksabanovic
With the likes of Jack Wilshere, Felipe Anderson and Andriy Yarmolenko joining a squad that already included Arnautovic, Michail Antonio and Manuel Lanzini, Haksabanovic knows there is fierce competition for places in the attacking midfield and wide positions.
However, with senior international caps and more than 80 senior appearances for Swedish club Halmstads under his belt, the youngster will not be cowed by the challenge of earning competitive first-team minutes.
“They are all great players and it’s tough to get a starting place, but I am here to improve and I’m still young, so it’s good. It feels good to have those players around me.”
However many appearances he makes this season, Haksabanovic is already feeling the benefit of working under Pellegrini and his coaching staff over the last four weeks.
“He’s good, he’s been at Manchester City and won the Premier League there and been to Real Madrid, so I’m glad to be part of his squad.
“I feel a bit stronger and quicker than I was last year and of course my confidence is the most important thing and that is rising with every game I play.”