Schalke´s Afellay ready to impress

Schalke winger Ibrahim Afellay is confident he possesses the qualities to become a key figure at the Bundesliga club.

The versatile Dutchman has yet to really live up to the high expectations at Veltins-Arena after joining them from Barcelona on a one-year loan deal in the off-season, but Afellay has little doubt he can add something special to the team.

“I’m feeling very well and I’m slowly gaining match rhythm. It’s hard to remain patient. I really love the game and I’m raring to go,” Afellay told De Telegraaf.

“I know that I can add something to the team. I understand the coach’s point of view, though. I have to prove my worth whenever I get playing time.

“It’s the same with the national team. Of course, there’s a lot of competition, but that’s only normal when you’re surrounded by the best players Netherlands have.”

Afellay is away on international duty as the Netherlands lock horns with Andorra on Friday.