Maupay enjoys staying connected with supporters

Albion forward Neal Maupay has enjoyed keeping in touch with fans during the current coronavirus crisis when he plays games online. 

The Frenchman takes on John McGinn in the first round of the #ePremierLeague Invitational at 12pm today and believes that taking part in gaming tournaments helps keep spirits up.

He said, “It’s been good to still keep in contact with fans. I’ve always been a big fan of video games and so it’s been nice for them to be able to watch me play. 

“There are a lot of people watching the live streams of matches at the moment. I thought it would be a good time to play some FIFA and stream it and meet the fans online. At the moment we can’t do that in person, so it’s been nice talking to them. 

“It’s good because it’s a difficult time. If I can give some happiness to some of our fans then that’s great.”

The striker took on Sparta Rotterdam in the Ultimate Quaranteam Tournament in March but was drawn against a professional gamer representing Sparta Rotterdam and exited at the first round stage but says a more level playing field in the Premier League tournament should suit him. 

“It’ll be a good game for both of us and it’s exciting to be involved in the first competition of this kind run by the Premier League,” he said. 

“It’s new for all of us and while I’m not sure of the level of my opponent, hopefully it’s entertaining to watch and the supporters enjoy it.

“Last time I was paired against a professional e-sports player. It was hard for me, but this time it’s just professional footballers so I’m confident I can do well.”

Maupay wouldn’t be drawn on his team selection for the game, but said he’d be practicing hard.

“I’ve been playing with a friend to get a feel for the team I’ll select. To be honest, the team probably won’t be too different to last time but let’s wait and see.”