STEPHAN Negru will continue to put his body on the line as he seeks a regular run of games for Oxford United.
The 21-year-old centre back stepped in for the injured Jordan Thorniley at the heart of the U’s defence as the side picked up their first three points of the season against Carlisle United.
It was only Negru’s fourth game for the club after joining in January.
The Irishman has made an impression on each of those appearances though, with United yet to concede a goal while he’s been on the pitch.
READ ALSO: Jordan Thorniley set to be out for ‘a few weeks’ with ankle problem
On his adoration for defending, Negru said: “The way I was brought up through my academy back home in Ireland, I love defending and have a passion for it. I put my body on the line.
“Nowadays, playing out from the back has developed, and I think I’m improving day in and day out.
“But for me, my first primary job is to defend so I put my head, my leg and my body on the line, and do whatever you need to do to not concede a goal.
“I get pleasure from keeping a clean sheet.”
One thing that is new for Negru though is U’s head coach Liam Manning’s style of play, with the defender taking short goal kicks inside the penalty area with James Beadle against Carlisle.
“That’s what I need to adapt to over here, being more comfortable on the ball,” said Negru.
“The gaffer gives us confidence and freedom to play. He believes in us and that makes me believe in myself.
“We believe in ourselves and the team, and what the gaffer and staff work on.”
“I was chuffed but I think a few people in the dugout were a bit nervous.”
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Negru’s maturity has impressed and led to praise from Manning.
“I just believe in myself and at the end of the day, I think ‘it’s just another game of football’ and you’ve got to go out and enjoy it, and do what you’re good at,” said Negru.
“We’re lucky to be in this field of work. I enjoy what I do and work hard, and if you work hard, you’ll reap the rewards.
“That’s the way I see it, I just put my head down and work hard.
“I don’t get ahead of myself, it’s a team game. I’m not here for individual rewards, I’m here to help the team as much as I can, and to try and keep the ball out of the net.”
Negru added: “At this level, you need to be consistent so one or two games aren’t enough.
“Whenever I’m put in the team and the gaffer chooses me, I work hard and hopefully help the team in anyway possible.”
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