Udinese wing-back Destiny Udogie says the players are thriving over their stunning start to the season.

With 19 points after eight games, leaving the club just one point off the top, the midfielder admits the players are enjoying their form.

“My aim is to help the team. The club has given me so much and I want us to pick up as many points as possible," said Udogie.

“It's been tiring since pre-season. We all came back with the right spirit and desire to win and fight, which is exactly what we're managing to do.

“Credit to the players for always believing. It's down to our intense training regime in the week. We give our all in training to be ready every Sunday. This is why instead of dropping off during games, we just keep going and look to keep building on what we have. It's also down to the mental side of things. Of course, we all want to follow the coach's orders and do well.

“We've felt since the summer that we could have a great season. We have real physical and technical quality and we're going to follow the coach's orders throughout the season. He's the one calling the shots and we respect him."