At 22, Ivorian international Wilfried Singo (AS Monaco) is one of the new faces who have established themselves since the start of the Ligue 1 Uber Eats season. He spoke exclusively to Ligue 1 recently
How did you start playing football?
Like many others, I started in my neighborhood, playing with very small balls. Then, since my father also played football, it motivated me to become a footballer.
Who are the defenders who currently inspire you?
Dante, a superb player who, despite his age, is in great shape.
Can you tell us about your experience in Italy, at Torino, where you played for four years, from when you were 18 until this summer?
I learned a lot there, particularly in the tactical aspect. This helped me in training. I was helped by good people, like Nicolas Nkoulou, who supported me. Him and my “big brother” Yaya Touré are among those who advised me to come to Monaco.
You are discovering Ligue 1 Uber Eats this season. What are the main differences with Serie A?
Ligue 1 Uber Eats has more trust in young players. Youngsters receive a lot of playing time; the same is true at AS Monaco. The coach can count on many young players.
At AS Monaco, you are in daily contact with talented players. How is it going?
Up front, there is only quality, whether with Balogun, who is powerful, Golovin, Minamino... With these kind of attackers in training, it is difficult to defend, but it allows us to work well.
What is your main quality on the field?
Defense! My qualities are mainly speed and strength. I can play both centrally and on the flanks. I always try to adapt to my opponent. There are some who are fast and others who are athletic.
How do you manage to exploit the counter-attacking qualities developed as a full-back when you play in the middle?
Sometimes I want to go up but I quickly remember that I am a defender... and that I must stay back. But I like this versatility, because it’s important to have it in a squad. I play where the coach asks me.
Exactly, what can you tell us about coach Adi Hütter who was not very well known in France before joining AS Monaco?
He's a good coach. He arrived with his own ideas and his philosophy. It makes me happy to be able to work with him, to practice his style of play. He has taught me things, especially in terms of pressing. He also places a lot of emphasis on playing with one or two touches.
