Francis Jeffers talks about his first game back for the Newcastle Jets.
Since first arriving to Australia three weeks ago, there has been a great deal of excitement about the return of English striker Francis Jeffers to the Newcastle Jets.
Playing his first game for the Jets during their 2-nil victory over Perth Glory on Saturday, Jeffers showed exactly why there is so much hype surrounding the former Arsenal and Everton star.
“It has been a very pleasing two weeks,” Jeffers said.
“It will take some time for me to get up to speed but I am working hard for the team.
“Saturday-s game has done me a world of good and it was great to get 70 minutes under my belt.
“I really didn-t expect that and was thinking I would come off the bench but Gary (van Egmond) had other ideas.”
The Jets moved into second spot on the Hyundai A-League ladder and will be looking to Jeffers to help them secure their first away game win when they travel to Melbourne to take on Heart this Saturday.
“We came out pretty quick and it was a good win,” the 30-year old said.
“Perth were above us on the table so to now sit equal with them is a really good result.
‘I think we were the better side and deserved the win.
“From what I have seen, the team have been grinding out results but Saturday’s game against the Glory was a different story.”
Whilst his name wasn’t on the goal scoring list, he knows that is just a matter of time.
“I will get chances with this team,” he explained.
“I have Ruben (Zadkovich) playing behind me and two midfielders out wide.
“From today-s showing you can that the side were creating chances, which is great for a striker.”
In two weeks time, Jeffers will be joined by his wife and six-year old daughter and he busy getting everything ready for his family-s arrival.
“It is going to be good having them here and they are looking forward to it,” he said.
“It was different last time we were he because I was only contracted to a guest stint so it was more like a holiday.
“This time we plan on getting more settled and I am currently sorting schools for my daughter to attend.”
With the weather hitting tops of 30 degrees in Newcastle, Jeffers is acclimatising well.
“It is pretty hot here and the most important thing for me over the next couple of weeks is to look after my body and get through training and games.
“I believe that in a couple of weeks you will see an improved player.”
Knowing what Jeffers is capable of, that is a good sign of what is to come.
