November 14, 2023
Fascinating press conference with Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, who talks through his brilliant rise to the top of the game and first England call up.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 How does it feel?: Proud moment for me and my family. Grateful for opportunity.
01:05 Shock to wait for senior call up?: I knew I had a lot to work on my game. only the last two years have I excelled and become the player I am today.
01:47 Never lacked belief?: Knowing myself I've always believed. I'm enjoying my football.
02:24 Switch to Portugal?: Those were just rumours, I do have Portuguese in me but I've always wanted to play for England.
02:50 We have a lot of world class players and I'll learn a lot here
03:20 John Terry comments: Means a lot coming from a legend, he's given me lots of advice. He said congratulations.
04:09 Didn't have an easy journey: It means a lot to my brothers, having a big brother helped me remain grounded.
04:49 Telling the family: The little one was excited, the missus was as well.
05:05 What can people from your area learn from you: My brother put me on the right path.
05:52 Life under Emery: It's really exciting. I'm really enjoying playing football.
06:20 Inspiration growing up?: John Terry, Rio Ferdinand.
06:30 What always inspired you?: They were leaders, they also played for their countries.
06:59 Played the last 52 consecutive Prem games, how has Emery helped you?: His CV speaks for itself, I knew I'd excel under him, he's helped me become a man.
07:56 Tyrone Mings influence: There's not much he's said to me, we've always been close since he joined. The way he helps players, people are fond of him.
08:54 How do you come out of your shell?: The boss demands it from me, it's trying to do it everyday.
09:18 What do you need to do to get on the plane?: Enjoy my football and do what I do.
09:54 Intensity in training: I was smiling because it was a happy moment, to share a pitch with these guys was an exciting moment.
10:18 What happened when you got the call?: I was driving home after Sunday, talking to the missus about going on a break, then I got a call.
10:58 Will you get minutes this week?: That's for the boss to decide.
11:11 Can you put the “where's Konsa” noise behind you?: I want to let my football do the talking?:
11:45 Importance of earlier in career: I had great coaches at Charlton, my time there really helped me.
12:45 How much have you changed as a player?: When the boss came in, that's how he wanted us to play. I think I'm doing pretty well.
13:18 Type of football you like playing?: Definitely, I've always wanted to dominate teams.
13:45 Advice from Villa teammates?
14:23 Nickname at old club ‘little Rio': Surreal moment. I've worked hard to be here.
14:50 What's Gareth said to you?: Be yourself and enjoy it.
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