Chapman talks about his natural position
February 22, 2012 17:33:52 UK
Newcastle Jets' Connor Chapman was given just over 10 minutes of playing time in his A-League debut against Perth Glory but even in that mini cameo he managed to dazzle the onlookers.
Chapman was introduced into the game as a 77th minute replacement for midfielder Tarek Elrich and although the Jets lost 2-0, the 17-year-old looked composed in his defensive midfield role even though he is naturally a centre half.
Newcastle Jets are 2.20 to defeat Adelaide United, who themselves are 3.20 to get the win. A draw between the two sides can be backed at 3.40.
Speaking in an interview with Sportal, Chapman said: "I was only on for 10 minutes but I thought I did quite well for the time I was on there. I wasn't really scared to come on even though it is a big step to jump up to the A-League.
"My preferred position is centre-back. But obviously with Jobe Wheelhouse being out, Taylor Regan had to cover for him and then when Taylor got sick halfway through the game I came on in that role."
He didn't panic when in possession, moved gracefully with the ball, showed good pace going forward and even managed to win the ball on several occasions.
"I like to be an attacking centre-back as well, that is why I was comfortable in that position. When I was younger a lot of coaches put me in both attacking and defensive positions to try to improve my game," Chapman said.
"(Coach) Gary (van Egmond) said to me before the game that I could possibly play that position if I go on. I have played that position when I was a younger player so it is not an uncomfortable position, I just haven't played there for a while but my number one position is centre-back," he added.
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