Valentino Yuel and the Newcastle Jets are looking forward to an exciting season under new head coach Arthur Papas, with several fresh faces in the attacking third.
Arthur Papas has been busy in the transfer window, bringing in several new faces. (Newcastle Jets)
Speaking to the media this week, Yuel revealed that regardless of his playing time or where he plays, he will strive to give the best for himself and his teammates week in week out.
Under Craig Deans, he mainly played as a striker or in his natural position as a winger.
It remains to be seen where he will feature under Papas, particularly with the vast array of attacking talent the new coach has at his disposal.
Yuel particularly wants to improve the number of assists he can rack up this season.
“I prefer on the wing; I think there’s a lot more freedom. I like being isolated with more one-on-one situations," he said.
During Deans' tenure, Yuel only registered one assist in 30.18 hours of football.
He mainly featured as Roy O'Donovan's strike partner.
Yuel in pre-season training with the Jets. (Newcastle Jets)
Netting four goals last season in his first stint for the club wasn’t enough for the South Sudanese international, and he wants to improve on that this season.
“I definitely want to score more goals,” he added.
“I want to be more effective in the front third. I think that’s an area I need to improve."
Staying fit over the off-season and featuring in international Games for South Sudan has kept Yuel sharp and ready for the new season.
After a breakout campaign in 2020-21, Yuel is primed to continue his rapid development throughout the upcoming A-League season.
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