By Daniel Nhakaniso
Jordan Zemura says he is enjoying playing under the new Udinese manager Kosta Runjaić.
The 25-year-old London-born Zimbabwe international has made 14 league appearances for Udinese this season, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
Zemura was named in Udinese’s starting line up of their match against Napoli and played until the 83rd minute in another solid individual display for the Zimbabwe international.
He won a penalty for his side which was initially saved before Florian Thauvin scored on rebound to give Udinese a surprise lead before Napoli rallied to clinch a win.
In an interview with Udinese’s official website, Zemura said he is enjoying his football under the mentorship of German coach Runjaić, who took over the coaching reins at Udinese in the summer.
“The boss always tells us we need to work hard and that’s what I do. I can tell he has faith in me. He often talks to me and gives the confidence to push up,” Zemura said.
He added: “I won the penalty for us but Napoli ended up winning. We need to move on immediately now because we have the Coppa Italia coming up on Thursday.
“A footballer has to be able to adapt. When I play in midfield I link up better with the forwards and midfielders compared to when we play with four at the back, but adapting to different positions is part of the game.”
Zemura also took the posies from his team’s 3-1 loss at home against Serie A title contenders Napoli on Saturday.
“We had an excellent first half and played at a high tempo. Then we lost our shape a little and Napoli came into it more. They’re a great team and you have to be alert from the first minute to the last,” Zemura said after the match.