Salzurg’s Zambian forward, Patson Daka has had a breakout season. Despite the interruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic, it is clear that the Austrian champions have a veritable conveyor belt of talent – with Daka freshly arrived at the top of it – at their disposal.
With 18 goals to his name in the season so far, the 21-year-old Zambian has been a regular on the scoresheet under Jesse Marsch’s reign and, in the absence of Erling Haaland and Takumi Minamino, is motivated to consistently produce the goals for one of the most exciting teams in European football.
Daka says he takes inspiration from former club stars and fellow Africans, Sadio Mané and Naby Keïta.
Having returned to training in Austria this week – while still following strict health rules and guidance – Daka said of the Liverpool pairing,
“They inspire me in so many ways in their personality, their professionalism and seeing also that they come from Africa – where I come from – it’s a motivation to know that if they can make it, I can also make it,” Daka said of Mané and Keïta, who both featured in the 4-3 Champions League win at Anfield over Red Bull Salzburg last October,
“I think that’s my motivation.
“I think it’s every player’s dream to always be consistent and help the team succeed, which is my main goal. I’m very happy and excited with the performances that I’ve had so far and I just hope that it continues like this and that I can help the team as much as I can.”
I also stand a chance because knowing that [Sadio Mané and Naby Keïta] were here, me coming here to experience the things that they’ve been experiencing it’s a great motivation for me to go forward.
The recent weeks away from the training ground have provided Daka with some inspired diversions. In addition to working on his own physical program and having regular online chats with team-mates, the young Zambian has also been learning how to cook – but insists there is no chance in a change in careers anytime soon.
“I’ve been cooking but I’m still learning!’ he said, adding of the return to training:
“I really missed football and I feel alive today. I feel like something was missing in me and I have finally found it.”
Much like Daka, manager Jesse Marsch has been relishing the chance to be reunited with his playing and coaching staff in person.
However, the American admitted there would be challenges ahead for his squad.
“Our biggest challenge is making sure we’re 100 percent fit and ready for the next 11 games which will define our season. It’s a big chance for us to achieve some big goals and that’s what we’re focused on right now, making sure we’re doing everything we can to make a big push here in the next two, three months,” Marsch said.
Culled from ©Red Bull Salzburg
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