Maupay: We've got to know our new teammates

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Striker says squad have welcomed new boys.

Charlie Hanson

2022-07-17T05:00:00Z

Neal Maupay had a simple finish in the first minute to put Albion in front.

Neal Maupay says it’s been good getting to know his new teammates during a week-long training trip to Portugal.

Albion were in near complete control in Lisbon for their second pre-season friendly, with Maupay grabbing two early goals, before new arrivals Deniz Undav and Kaoru Mitoma rounded off the scoring.

Speaking after a terrific 4-1 victory over Estoril on Saturday evening, he said, “This week has been really good in terms of work and team spirit. We had time to spend together to get to know the new players and it’s been great.

“We’ve got a strong squad, we know we’ve got some new players and we’re looking forward to playing with them. We’ve trained hard this week and got to know each other better.

“Deniz and Kaoru got their first goals. Everyone worked hard and everyone had time today on the pitch, it was a positive game at the end of a positive week.”

The Frenchman says the focus remains on fitness, rather than the results at this stage.

“We are in a positive place, but it’s not about how you start, it’s how you finish.

“Pre-season is good but I don’t pay too much attention to results in pre-season because you can win every game and then you start the league season and lose, so it doesn’t matter.

“It’s certainly good to be in good shape and be ready, as well as have clear ideas on what we want to do and want to achieve this season.”