Signed from Hajduk Split in his homeland last summer, Basic's Bordeaux career has really kicked on since the turn of the year. Two goals from midfield against Toulouse FC and Montpellier Hérault SC proved that his qualities do not lie solely in the build-up play.

"I prefer to play more offensive, you know, because I want to score. I'm that type of player, but I'm very happy in this position too, to play, to create something from the back, and I have to improve that, that's what I want," Basic, speaking in English, told The Ligue 1 Show on beIN Sports.

Since Paulo Sousa's arrival as coach at Bordeaux in early March, the 22-year-old's importance in the team has grown considerably. Sousa has admitted that he has asked Basic to do "different things, difficult things". But while the player is flourishing, his team are floundering in 14th place in the table. Their form has been far from inspiring this season, yet Basic stands out as one of their most consistent performers.

Learning experience

"It's been difficult for me to lose so many games, but it's the way to grow as a player too. This season has been really really bad for us because we expected to reach Europe, that was the minimum goal but we didn't do that," Basic said.

Though his first experience in France has not yet reached the heights Basic dreamed of, Bordeaux's number 26 is delighted to be testing himself against the best on offer in Ligue 1 Conforama.

"The rhythm is very fast, you know. It's fast football, strong football, I know that and I think I have adapted very well. I can continue and I can grow here, because this is a school. I hope that in the next season we can get much better results."