Adam Idah has praised fellow striker Zan Vipotnik’s professionalism amid ongoing speculation about the Slovenian’s future at Swansea City.
Championship golden boot winner Vipotnik has been the subject of interest from Premier League side Hull City.
The Tigers saw a bid worth around £10m rejected for the 24-year-old international before Vipotnik started against Stoke on the opening weekend.
Idah, who scored the winner at Stoke with his first touch after replacing the former Bordeaux striker, hopes Vipotnik will stay in south Wales.
“He’s been brilliant to be fair. He’s been really professional. I know what it’s like to be in that situation,” said Idah.
“It’s hard to keep your head and stay focused when there is so much talk. He’s been fantastic through it all.”
Former Celtic forward Idah believes Vipotnik’s attitude has been impeccable.
“I don’t think there are many players in his situation who would do a whole pre-season and play the first game,” he added.
“It’s not easy. Who knows what’s going to happen. We would be delighted if he stays here.”
Any exit for Vipotnik would open the door for Idah – into his second season at Swansea – to feature more regularly.
But the Republic of Ireland international also knows how important Vipotnik could be for the Swans’ promotion hopes.
“You’ve seen him last season, scoring 23 goals, it would be massive for him to stay with us and continue scoring those goals,” said Idah.
“We want to finish high up the table and get back into the Premier League. He would be a big part of that.”
‘Getting minutes is really important’
Idah’s winner at Stoke was his third goal in two Championship fixtures, having ended last season with a brace against Charlton Athletic.
The former Norwich man hopes to stay injury-free this season after he was forced to miss lengthy periods during his debut season in Wales.
And with Scotland international Ross Stewart also joining the club this summer, signing on a free transfer, Idah understands that competition for places is stiff.
But he is not concerned about the need to win over Swansea boss Vitor Matos, although starting the league campaign with a goal will certainly help.
“I just want to stay injury-free and score as many goals as I can,” Idah explained when asked whether he has set any personal goals for the season.
“Getting minutes is really important. Hopefully I can continue doing what I did [on Saturday].
“I’m past all of [those injuries] and showing people what I’m capable of. I’ve played Champions League and Premier League.
“I don’t need to prove myself to anyone now. I know what I’m capable of, and that’s the most important thing.
“I’m sure the manager has a lot of trust in me to put me on. I just want to continue playing games and scoring goals.”
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
