Milan midfielder Marco van Ginkel says Nigel de Jong is an inspiration as he discusses his Rossoneri role.
The on-loan Chelsea player made his first Serie A start last weekend in the Rossoneri’s 2-0 win over Udinese and the Dutchman admits he’s relieved to finally be making his mark at San Siro.
“I was happy with my performance [against Udinese],” Van Ginkel reflected to Milan Channel.
Milan midfielder Marco van Ginkel says Nigel de Jong is an inspiration as he discusses his Rossoneri role.
The on-loan Chelsea player made his first Serie A start last weekend in the Rossoneri’s 2-0 win over Udinese and the Dutchman admits he’s relieved to finally be making his mark at San Siro.
“I was happy with my performance [against Udinese],” Van Ginkel reflected to Milan Channel.
“It was a bit frustrating when I wasn’t playing. I did good things, but the important thing is that the team got back to winning ways.
“We needed the three points and it was a good game for me and the team.
“I’m happy when I play. I’m a box-to-box midfielder who can both attack and defend.”
The 22-year-old also spoke about playing alongside some of his more illustrious collegues, reserving special praise for compatriot Nigel de Jong.
“My teammates complimented me after Sunday, it was good for my confidence.
“De Jong is an inspiration for me, its wonderful to play with him.
“[Fernando] Torres and [Michael] Essien are also great role models, I’ve seen them on tv and now I’m playing with them.
“They are great players, and also really nice lads.”
The former Vitesse Arnem player then looked ahead to Sunday’s trip to Genoa, saying a victory for the Rossoneri would be the perfect birthday present.
“Monday was my birthday, we had a rest day so I spent the day with my girlfriend,” Van Ginkel explained.
“What do I want for a present? To play on Sunday and bring three points back to Milan.
“It will be a big game, we’re playing away in a stadium with a great atmosphere, but we want the three points.”