Australia NewsNew Jet Jesper's Aussification |
EXCLUSIVE: Jesper Hakansson admits his switch Down Under could damage his international prospects but it can only mould him into an even better footballer.
The Danish striker says he is settling in well with Newcastle Jets and is of the firm belief that life is full of opportunities that must be grasped.The forward told au.fourfourtwo.com: "I am really enjoying it here. It’s a nice team with good players. They’ve looked after me really well and now I’m just waiting for my family to join me.
"It is a big step but not many people get this chance. Me and my family like to travel. I played eight years in Holland and it was time to try something else. Me and my wife thought ‘why not?’ You have to try things.
"You can always learn something new. Every country has it’s own footballing style. This is more powerful. You have to be strong and your touch has to be good because it is quick. I think you can always take these things to your game and get better.
"I didn’t see much of the A-league because it’s a long way from Denmark but I spoke to (former Manchester United and Denmark star) Jesper Olsen a couple of times about the league and everyone can see it’s getting better and better every year. I think it will be a good step for me."
Hakansson is anxious to make his mark in the team and is confident he can fire for van Egmond's men.
He said: "I like to move the ball quickly, one touch and score. I hope I will make some goals and score goals. That’s what I want and what the coach wants."
The Dane can already sense that he has joined a squad brimming with self belief.
"You can see the level here in training is high. You can see they trust themselves and it’s nice to come into a place where people feel they will go well," he said.
The only down side about embracing a challenge on the other side of the world is the danger of dropping off the international radar.
Hakansson, who once had a trial spell with Manchester United, still has ambitions on the international stage but knows there is a risk of out of sight, out of mind.
He said: "It is difficult. I don’t think the Danish coach would come all this way just for me, to watch me but I’ll do my best and we’ll see what happens."
As for embracing the Australian lifestyle, Hakansson will make the most of the beaches but don't expect him to join Joel Griffiths in tackling a few big waves.
"I am not a big surfer and while I’ll enjoy the beaches you can’t be out in the sun too long," he said. "So, yes, I will enjoy Australia but I am here to play soccer, to work."
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