‘I’m trying to do same things and even better than them’ – Azeez gunning to raise bar
MIGUEL AZEEZ is aiming to better the individual performances of his team-mates amid talk of a January return to Arsenal.
It’s expected that Danny Cowley will allow two members of his season-long loan contingent to depart Pompey next month to open space for new arrivals.
And the Gunners loanee is hoping his recent displays in royal blue will be enough to keep him at the club.
After a relatively anonymous beginning to life on the south coast, the 19-year-old has played the entirety of the Blues’ last four games in all competitions.
The midfielder had to bide his time as he adapted to the rigours of the third tier, before being handed an opportunity by the former Lincoln manager.
And in the Blues’ 2-0 victory over Morecambe on December 11, Azeez grasped his chance with a classy display, while registering the assist for Connor Ogilvie’s header 13 minutes from time.
Speaking to The News,
Azeez said: ‘Yes, it’s been different.
‘League One is a different type of football to Premier League level, there’s a lot more direct play, and having to deal with second balls and 50-50 challenges.
‘But I feel like I have adapted really well and they are aspects of my game that I’ve added to.
‘I’ve just been trying to listen to the coaches’ feedback while working with experienced players like Shaun Williams.
‘Then try to work on it during every single game and watch how other players perform. Then when it comes to me, I’m trying to do the same things and even better things than them.’
Following his summer arrival from north London, the 2021-22 season has been his first consistent taste of senior football.
Azeez had captained Arsenal at youth level, but had only played seven minutes for the first team before joining Pompey.
And when asked how he’s finding the physicality of the third tier, he said: ‘Fine. I’m a strong guy so, for me, physicality is nothing to me.
‘I can get around the pitch better than anyone so I feel like physicality and football is fine for me.
‘When I play I’m happy so it’s just about building momentum and keeping going.’
Azeez has made nine appearances for Pompey in all competitions so far, scoring once in the Papa John’s Trophy victory over Crystal Palace under-21s last month.
His recent opportunities have been aided by injuries to fellow midfielders Louis Thompson and Ryan Tunnicliffe, and Joe Morrell being laid low by illness.