“From our first phone call” – Jashari explains why Amorim has been ‘crucial’ since day one

Ardon Jashari believes that getting more regular minutes will be the best way for him to keep growing as a player, after a good start against Udinese.

Head coach Ruben Amorim was forced to battle an injury crisis in the build-up to the game, though there were options in midfield. The Portuguese chose to go with Jashari to be Luka Modric’s partner in the double pivot, with Yunus Musah starting on the bench.

The Swiss international grew into the game after some early giveaways, and by the second half he was orchestrating things almost as much as Modric. He had a hand in the second goal too, with his shot being parried by the goalkeeper to Omari Hutchinson who converted the rebound.

Jashari spoke to Sky after the game last night to provide some of his thoughts on what was a positive performance for him individually and from the team. MilanNews relayed his words.

You seem like the type of player who gets better with consistent minutes…

“I’d say definitely yes. Not just for me personally, but I think everyone can see and appreciate how much I’m growing.

“With more minutes, I feel much more confident, and my team-mates are trusting me more and more, and I’m really happy about that. But the most important thing, obviously, is the victory: this is the first step in the right direction.”

You partnered up very well with Modric today…

“I think exactly the same. We have a really great connection: we understand each other instantly. When he moves into a certain position, I go to cover him, and vice versa. Of course, I don’t have to teach Luka what to do on the pitch.

“However, even when I’m the one moving, he always knows how to cover my back. I really enjoyed playing alongside him tonight. Besides, we already had a great match together last year against Como, so I’m very happy: it’s fantastic to play with him.”

How much have you already absorbed and made your own Mister Amorim’s tactical credo?

“The coach has been crucial to me since the first day he was appointed AC Milan coach. From our first phone call, he showed me he knew me perfectly as a player.

“Then, step by step, he gave me more and more confidence, and I want to repay him by giving everything I have on the pitch, playing consistently, even if he already knows this.

“I think he’ll be happy with what I’ve done tonight, but as I said, this is just the beginning and a small part of what I’m truly capable of.”