Michael Obafemi has been speaking to the media following his loan move from Swansea City, revealing the extent of "a difficult few months" after finally sealing his move to Burnley.
After initially trying to land his signature in the summer, Burnley finally secured a deal to bring the Republic of Ireland international striker Michael Obafemi to Turf Moor.
Vincent Kompany tried to sign the 22-year-old in the late stages of the summer transfer window, but Swansea City’s price tag was not met by the Clarets. The striker has since been out of form and hasn't featured in a matchday squad since football returned after the World Cup in December.
Patience did pay off for Obafemi though when he finally sealed his move to Lancashire on a loan deal until the end of the season.
Speaking to Lancashire Live after his move, Obafemi revealed his delight after what has been a difficult period for the striker: "It has been a difficult few months but now I am here I need to work hard and get myself in the team.
"When Burnley first came in in the summer I was adamant to go there. It didn't happen but everything happens for a reason and now is the right time for me to come."
Obafemi has scored just three goals this season and is understanding of his position in the squad and expects a challenge when it comes to forcing his way into Kompany's plans.
"Just because I am here doesn't mean I am going to play every game and I need to work hard to show everyone why he (Kompany) signed me."
With Jay Rodriguez and Ashley Barnes out of form, Obafemi could find himself thrust into first-team action sooner rather than later as Kompany looks to find the scoring touch once again with his forwards.
The Verdict
It's perhaps a move that will leave a sour taste with Swansea fans.
It's clear that he wanted a move away from the club and considering Swansea worked so hard to retain him, to allow him to leave on loan is strange.
It seems there's no benefit, and it weakens Swansea further when they perhaps should have been more open to a move in the summer.