Oba needs to change

STAR AIMS TO KICK-START CAREER

REPUBLIC of Ireland international striker Michael Obafemi believes a change in attitude can boost his career.

Obafemi recently joined Millwall on-loan after injury problems restricted him to just two appearances at Burnley this season.

He said: “I’m a bit chilled. The old me was a bit chaotic but I’m a bit more chilled now but still bubbly at the same time, always smiling, like to have a laugh. I think I make people laugh, I think so, I don’t really know.

“The Millwall changing room is bubbly. Everyone gets on with everyone, there’s no real cliques. Everyone’s just laughing and having fun. And I’m happy to add to that as well now that I’m here.

“The main thing for me was getting game time and playing football.

“And with my attributes, I feel like I can help the team. I spoke to the manager before I came and he said I could help him and he could help me.

“That’s the aim for me. Staying fit and getting minutes.

“I would say I’m explosive, powerful and fast. Those are my main attributes. But I can also link-up play as well and get others involved. I’m always confident in myself and my ability and what I can bring to a team.

“I’ve set myself personal goals but I need to make sure I’m 100 per cent fit, because when I’m 100 per cent fit, I can affect the team.” Meanwhile, fellow Ireland international team mate Will Smallbone has been hailed as “brilliant” by Southampton manager Russell Martin. Martin felt that Smallbone (inset) was outstanding in the 5-3 win against Huddersfield Town that kept Southampton in second place in the Championship. Martin said: “I thought Will Smallbone was brilliant. Will is a guy who goes under the radar a lot, but I think people need to understand how flexible and talented he is.

“People need to appreciate how brave he is, how much he will run for the team and how selfless he is. Will was really brilliant.”