Etim’s Form Picking Up After Difficult Start at Midtjylland

Nigeria striker Friday Etim believes his form is beginning to improve after a difficult start to the season with FC Midtjylland.

Etim was named Man of the Match by the fans following Midtjylland’s impressive 4-1 victory over Brøndby at the MCH Arena on Monday.

The 24-year-old striker was unable to get his name on the scoresheet, with a first-half goal ruled out for a narrow offside, but the disallowed effort extended his run of goal involvement to five consecutive games.

Etim praised Midtjylland’s performance and said the team executed its game plan from the opening minute.

‘It was a top performance right from the start of the first half to the final whistle. People gave everything on the pitch,’ Etim said.

‘The plan was to attack them from the start. The coaches had told Stanley, Cho and me to keep running deep. Every time we had the opportunity, we had to try to get behind them.’

Despite missing out on a goal, Etim was pleased with the result and stressed that helping the team collect three points remains his priority.

‘Three points is the most important thing, and even though you as a striker obviously want to score and make assists, it’s secondary,’ he said.

Etim has also developed a strong understanding with compatriot Stanley Iheanacho, with the pair combining effectively in Midtjylland’s attack.

‘Stanley and I have been friends for a long time, and we know each other and can complement each other’s strengths well. I try to hold on to the ball and find him when he runs deep. I am happy that our interaction helps the team,’ he said.

Etim returned to Midtjylland this summer determined to make a bigger impact after his first spell at the club did not go as planned. However, his comeback was disrupted by a red card in his first match.