Junior Mwanga: "There is always room for improvement"

Girondins.com: You had a great game against Bastia, and the Matmut ATLANTIQUE was packed. What is your abiding memory of the match. Junior Mwanga: It was a good performance, we were solid from start to finish. We didn't give many chances away, and we took the chances we got very well. But there is always room for improvement. I'm satisfied with the team spirit, our discipline and concentration.  Girondins.com: The Girondins have successive games against top-of-the-table rivals, with a tricky away trip to Metz this Saturday. What do you make of Metz as a team? Junior Mwanga: They have some very strong attacking options, including one of the top scorers in the league (Georges Mikautadze, 15 goals). They are also remarkably solid at the back. It's going to be a tough game.

Girondins.com: You seem to be equally happy in the centre of defence or in central midfield. That flexibility is one of your biggest assets, but do you have a preference? Junior Mwanga: My favourite position, the one I originally trained for, is central defence. Recently I've been discovering the central midfield role, which has allowed me to become more flexible as a player. In the end it doesn't matter where the coach wants me to play, I just have to do my job and perform to the best of my abilities.

Girondins.com: You seem very comfortable changing position from one match to the next, or even during the game. How do you adapt so quickly? Junior Mwanga: It's mostly about adjusting mentally. As a defender you need to be careful about taking as few risks as possible, not making mistakes and staying solid to the very end. In midfield you feel like you have a bit more freedom. You can look to pick apart opponents with runs and passes. When I then switch back to defence, I need to be even more careful.  

Girondins.com: Which players have inspired you? Junior Mwanga: Lionel Messi has been my favourite player since I was a little kid. I'm also inspired by the greats in my own position, like Thiago Silva and Sergio Ramos. And now that I'm starting to play in midfield, I'm working to build up as much knowledge as I can in that position too. I'm always watching other defenders and midfielders, trying to learn as much as I can Girondins.com: You're also a member of the France U20 team; what has that experience given you? Junior Mwanga: First and foremost it's been a great pleasure, as it's the first time I've been selected to represent France. I'm just discovering the international scene, playing against other countries with different styles of play. It's a really enriching experience. Girondins.com: Do you have any hobbies outside football? Junior Mwanga: I'm a big fan of box set TV series. Right now I'm watching "Snowfall." My all-time favourite is "Power," but "Snowfall" is not far off. I love basketball too, I support the Golden State Warriors. Girondins.com: Thanks Junior, and good luck for Saturday!