Thursday morning saw latest Udinese recruit Florian Thauvin presented before the media. First to speak at the unveiling was sporting director Pierpaolo Marino, who was keen to stress the Frenchman’s qualities:
"This player needs no introduction. We’ve been admiring his performances in Ligue 1 and the French national team for a while. He’s got the technical quality to fill in for Gerard Deulofeu, possessing a wonderful left foot. I’m so glad Florian chose to come here."
Florian himself then spoke at the press conference:
"The first few days have gone really well. I’d like to thank the club and the sporting director for bringing me to Udinese, who play in one of the best leagues in the world. I’m delighted, the club is amazing. I’ve been really impressed with the facilities, the stadium and the pitch.
"I decided to sign for Udinese because they were so keen to recruit me. As a player it means a lot to feel wanted and that the club has a plan for you. I’m so grateful for the trust they’ve shown in me and I want to get down to some hard work right away.
"While I’ve not played many games this season I’m still in good physical shape. I’ll need a few days to get up to speed. I’m aware that the club favours a 3-5-2 formation. I’m a right winger by trade but I often played as a second striker at Marseille, drifting around the front line. That’s my ideal position.
"As for my personal and team goals, I’d firstly like to repay the trust the club has shown in me. I want to adapt as soon as possible, helping out my team-mates and winning as many games as possible."