Jeffrey relishes the challenge of locking horns with champions
suppose both clubs could have done without the extra 20 minutes on Tuesday night.
“I would expect this one to be the same. We’ve had a tough schedule, this will be our third game in six days. It’s all about recovery but we’ll be ready for the game.”
Van Overbeek stresses he is now getting used to the hustle and bustle of the local game.
He added: “For me it was difficult at the start because it is different from what I had been used to. In Holland we play on the ground and there aren’t a lot of long balls.
“But we are improving all the time. Everyone is learning to keep the ball and to play to a system.
“It’s about changing the mentality of keeping the ball on the ground. We are getting better.
“And it’s a lot more physical than what I was used to. We now have a new gym installed at the ground, so it will give me the chance to build up my muscles.
“It means we can train more and focus on the physical side of our game. Yes, I’ve found most games to be quite physical.
“But it’s a great move for me. I’ve settled in well and everyone has made me welcome.
“I’m delighted to be playing on a regular basis, it gives me the chance to grow into the club and do my best to help the team. I live quite near to the city centre with my wife, so life is good at the minute.”
High praise: David Jeffrey likes what he has seen from Linfield
AFTER an injury-ravaged opening couple of months to the season, David Jeffrey admits Ballymena United’s recent momentum will face a stiff challenge when they travel to champions Linfield tomorrow for this term’s first meeting of last season’s top two teams.
“They were very close games between us last season. I talk about fine lines and thin margins and I think all of the games were like that last season,” he said.
“I had an opportunity to watch Linfield up close a couple of weeks ago in their televised game against Crusaders and they were mightily impressive.
“Although Crusaders won, Linfield really impressed me that evening with their shape, their balance, how they kept the ball, their passing and movement.
“We have come through a period where we have had quite a number of players unavailable but we haven’t moaned or gurned about injuries.
“We’re working really hard and Saturday is another great opportunity to pit ourselves against a top, top side.
“We are exactly where I expected us to be and that is battling to get into and stay in the top six.
“In my time here we’ve been fourth, then sixth, then second but this year is going to be the toughest of the lot because of how other teams have been able to invest in their squads.
“It’s up to the players who are fit and available that they consolidate their place and make it difficult for their team-mates when they come to be fit and ready and hopefully then we can increase the competition levels in the squad.”