Huddersfield Town

- Nahki Wells discusses impact of David Wagner

- Bermudian pleased with 70 mins at Sheff Wed

- Striker wants to see further progression vs Boro

The striker played all 90 minutes in last weekend’s game at Sheffield Wednesday and, despite the 3-1 score-line, was encouraged by the changes in Town’s style of play.

“I don’t think myself and others have ever come out of the game so optimistic about a defeat given how we performed for the majority of time. Of course the defeat dampens everything, but I thought for 70 minutes the performance and style of play was great. We really put into effect what the Head Coach wants.

“We’re all optimistic, hardworking and believe in what the Head Coach wants us to do. We know, with time, everything will fall into place. For 70 minutes, we nearly had it.” 

In Wagner’s brand of ‘full throttle football’, Nahki and his fellow forwards are asked to get through a lot of work. However, the Bermudian explained that Wagner has hit a good balance of work and enjoyment in the work at PPG Canalside:

“It is definitely a lot of hard work playing like this and training has been difficult. It’s been like a pre-season, but there is an element of excitement and enjoyment to the work on the training pitch. It’s competitive – you pick up a few knocks – but it’s exactly what is needed to play in the manner and fashion that the Head Coach wants. 

“We play on the front foot and defending starts from the front. However, what made it easy for us last Saturday was the way we kept the ball; that made it easier for me. Because we have the ball much more, I can get into better positions. 

“I tried to stay alert and take the opportunities as they came last weekend, but unfortunately we couldn’t work a scoring opportunity for me. I was involved in the build-up play, but I know that this style will get me on the end of things more; that’s exactly what I want, and what the Head Coach wants.

“I know, with the creativity we have, that the goals will come. We just have to keep believing and stay on the front foot, like the Head Coach wants. 

“I’ve bought into this and I can see that most of the lads have too. The hard workers will shine and anyone that doesn’t want to graft will probably struggle a bit. We have a good bunch of players and a young team, so we’re built for this style of football.”

Now Nahki wants to see further progression when the Terriers host Boro on Saturday:

“I definitely expect us to take another step forward this weekend. Obviously Middlesbrough will look to counter what we do and play in a similar way, plus they are one of the better teams in the league. However, at this point I think a tough test will help us in our progress moving forward. 

“What I can tell you is that Middlesbrough will face a high tempo, high pressing performance with an element of controlled possession on Saturday. They’ll look to do the same, so it will come down to whose quality shines more.

“I’ve had some good games against Middlesbrough in every performance, but they have one of the toughest defences I’ve come up against in the Championship. It is a tough test and I know I have to prepare well, but hopefully I can notch a couple and we can win.”