I’M NOT FINISHED, LUALUA TELLS HIS CRITICS
KAZENGA LuaLua has fired a shot at his critics and is targeting a huge season for Brighton & Hove Albion.
Chris Hughton’s side endured a frustrating end to last term, losing a playoff semi-final to Sheffield Wednesday after finishing third in the regular season.
It was an equally frustrating season for Congolese winger LuaLua, who scored just four goals in 22 appearances for the Seagulls and came under considerable flak for his consistent injury woes.
And though he is happy to accept that he is no longer first-choice, he claims he is hitting peak fitness and firing on all cylinders as the Championship season picks up momentum.
“I need to have a good season and hopefully I will get my chance because I am so desperate to try and show people,” said the 25-year-old.
“Being injured is part of football. You can’t help that. But now I’m fit again and I’m desperate to show people what I can do.
“I’m still the same Kaz who has been here for many years.”
LuaLua has been using negative comments online to boost his motivation.
“On the internet some fans said ‘Kaz is always injured’ and this and that,” LuaLua said.
“It’s not like I’m a different player but the only way to show it is if you get a chance.”
Anthony Knockaert’s form is the biggest obstacle for LuaLua, but the former Newcastle United man is aware the clock is ticking on his professional career, leaving him desperate to fulfil his potential.
“This now is a massive season for me. I’m at an age where you have got to play as much football as you can,” he added.
“You see the people ahead of you. It is not easy for you to play but let’s see how it goes.”