Arfield looking for reaction against Leeds
Town midfielder Scott Arfield had to wait patiently for his second start of the season – but it didn’t go to plan at Middlesbrough tonight.
The Scotsman started the season opener at Cardiff City but has had to wait for his next chance due to the form of Adam Clayton, Keith Southern and Oliver Norwood. When it did come, it didn’t go as he would have hoped – with hosts Middlesbrough running out as 3-0 winners this evening.
“From a personal point of view it was good to get my second start of the season, but obviously disappointed. Collectively we never really showed up,” Scott told htafc.com.
“We’re professional footballers and regardless of what game we’re in and from a personal standpoint I didn’t play anywhere near as well as I can. That’s my fault – it’s no one else’s.
“I think what the Gaffer has built here is a very good, established Championship team. Even the boys on the fringes have great ability; everything is done at high intensity and to a very high standard. It’s good to be involved in that. Obviously I want to play in every game but sometimes you have to sit back and believe that your chance will come, like mine did tonight. Unfortunately I didn’t play anywhere as well as I hoped and expected, but roll on Saturday now – hopefully I’m involved.
“I think our start to the season has exceeded expectations outside the dressing room, but with the quality we have in there I think we are right on par – perhaps even a wee bit off it.”
Town have the ideal chance to bounce back from tonight’s disappointment when Yorkshire rivals Leeds United visit on Saturday for a 12.30pm kick-off.
“It’s definitely the right game for us after tonight,” Scott explained. “If there’s one game that you want to come now, this is it. The fans will be right up for it, as will the players, so it has all the makings of a great derby. We still have the belief in our squad.
“The team selection is up to the Manager, but Saturday is a massive game. When I first signed here Leeds had just been promoted and I missed out on experiencing the local derby, but I do want to play in that game.
“It’s the Gaffer’s decision though, obviously. We have an unbelievable squad with ability all the way through it and whatever team he picks we think we’re right on par. We believe in that changing room that we can get three points.”
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