ADINGRA ON MONACO MOVE

Simon Adingra was unveiled by AS Monaco on Wednesday after he completed his first training session with his new club. The Ivorian signed for the Ligue 1 club on loan on deadline day, with the French side having the option to make the move permanent in the summer for a fee in the region of £15 million. Speaking to the press for the first time since completing the deal, Adingra explained that he wants a fresh start in a new country and needs to play regularly in order to re-gain a place in the Ivory Coast squad after being left out of the most recent AFCON.

FRES START

"The club from the Principality spoke to me about their interest, my qualities and the project. I quickly saw AS Monaco’s ambition through the discussions I had with head coach Sebastien Pocognoli. The sporting project immediately appealed to me, so the decision came naturally."

BETTER SUITED TO FRANCE

"The style of play and the environment also played a part, as did the fact of playing in a French-speaking country and league – a language I’m comfortable with – which makes my adaptation easier. I’m here to help the team and show what I can do best.”

DIFFICULT TIME AT SUNDERLAND

"All players need to enjoy themselves, regardless of the league that they’re playing in. When you play a lot, you enjoy yourself. Did I lose that? Yes, I played less this season. I am here to gain confidence and move forward. The season at Sunderland was marked by some more difficult moments. Today, I want to focus on the present and move forward with the Red and Whites. I feel very good, both physically and mentally, and confident about what lies ahead. Enjoyment is essential for a player with my skill set and that comes through playing time. I’ve played less recently, so I’m here to regain confidence, rhythm and that sense of being.”

IVORY COAST AIMS

“One of the objectives is to have a strong run in the Coupe de France. On a personal level, I want to give my all, help the team and fully commit to the club’s project. Returning to the national team is also one of my ambitions. Getting back to a very high level is important to me, and I’ve spoken with Emerse Fae, the head coach of Cote d’Ivoire, who confirmed that joining AS Monaco, a major club in Ligue 1, was a very good choice.”