Femi Orenuga discusses his first taste of Swedish preseason match action with AFC United and also his former Everton teammate Hope Akpan's successful move to Reading.
It's just brilliant to now be seeing real action here at AFC United. After several weeks of training, the preseason schedule has finally kicked off and we're now in match mode.
Training Is much more intense now - we are really pushing on from last month's programme. There's more ball work, rather than running and I feel good with what I've done so far on the pitch.
I feel comfortable but I don't want to feel too comfortable because that's how mistakes kick in. We've played teams below and also in our division and I am pleased with how I've gone. It's all new to me and it's a real buzz testing myself against the 'unknown'. My aim is to work hard and make a place myself in this team. I'm determined to help the club push for promotion.
Delighted to get my first goal for AFC United last week against Sandvikens IF. It was a tap in - but only after I dribbled around the keeper! Sandvikens are in our division, so it's nice for the confidence to do well against them.
Preseason here is competitive, though the gaffer is also making sure all the lads get time on the pitch so our match fitness reaches the required levels. It's all about working towards that league kickoff.
I'm absolutely delighted for my old teammate at Everton, Hope Akpan, and how he's fitted in at Reading.
He's doing well, playing a full 90 minutes in the Premier League and creating goals. He has adapted to the step up from Crawley Town very well.
I must admit, when Hope was released by Everton a couple of years ago I was surprised. But these things happen in football, clubs make mistakes then realise they were wrong later down the years. For example, Leighton Baines! Of course, Leighton began his career at Everton before being released and creating a career for himself at Wigan Athletic. Now back at Everton, we all can see that sometimes clubs get it wrong.
Speaking of Leighton, I was able to catch the England win over Brazil here on Swedish TV.
It was one of the best performances I have seen England produce. It was excellent, especially with Brazil also including a lot of big name players.
Jack Wilshere has been different class for Arsenal since he came back from injury and that game showed us why he can be a genuine world class player in the coming years.
Femi Orenuga was speaking to Ifeanyi Abanum of AllNigeriasoccer.com on behalf of tribalfootball.com. Visit AllNigeriasoccer.com for all your latest Nigerian football news.
