The Big Interview - Carl Jenkinson

Carl Jenkinson believes he is starting to re-produce his best form for the Club and hopes to make it four away wins in a row when the Hammers head to Sunderland on Saturday.


Jenkinson, who made another season-long loan move from Arsenal did not enjoy the best of starts to the campaign after he was sent off during the 4-3 home defeat against Bournemouth.


But the talented full-back made a successful return to the side and played his part in a memorable 2-1 win over Premier League leaders Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.


The 23-year-old defender was disappointed that his side could not make it four league wins in a row as they had to settle for a point in the 2-2 draw with Norwich last weekend.


But he is confident the Hammers can get straight back on the winning trail when they head to the Stadium of Light this weekend.

 


We are back on our travels this weekend when we face Sunderland. After beating Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, how confident are you that we can extend this amazing unbeaten run away from home in the north east?


CJ: “Fingers crossed that is the plan. Sunderland are fighting for their lives at the moment and have not had too many results so it will be tricky.


“But if we can execute the games that we have played away from home this season then I think we will be fine.”

 


You must be delighted with your own performances since making a return to first-team action. Do you feel you are now producing your best form?


CJ: “Obviously I got sent-off and it was important that I got back into the team. I want to push on now and play some good football and feel that I am doing that now.


“On a personal note and for the team things are looking alright.”

 


You have played in some great teams over the years. How excited are you by the attacking talent that we have got in the squad this season?


CJ: “I think they are great and on the break they are as good as anyone. They are incredibly dangerous and have a lot of pace which frightens team.


“The team from back to front is very strong and there are not many weaknesses if any. That is important, not just in the starting line-up, but in the squad as well and we have strength in depth.


“That is hugely important. Attacking wise we can score goals and it is about keeping it out defensively which is part of my job, but we are doing okay at the moment.”

 


Everyone is talking about the form of Dimitri Payet following his move to the Club during the summer. How impressed have you been with him and the way he has quickly settled into his new surroundings?


CJ: “He is an exceptionally talented football player and has shown everyone what he can do so far. I am sure there is more to come from him.


“It is amazing how he has come from another league, moved all his family, changed his house and everything has changed for him, but he has settled down so quickly.


“They often say that it can take the foreign lads a season to do that, but not with Dimi and he has settled in straight away and he is playing fantastic football. Fair play to him and it is fantastic for us and his team-mates.”