Following Tuesday night’s pre-season victory against Penybont, Ronan Kpakio spoke to cardiffcityfc.co.uk.
The young right-back made a good first impression with his introduction to senior football, creating two goals in his 45 minutes on the pitch. The 17-year-old reflected on his performance, having earned plaudits among the City supporters in attendance.
“I was a bit nervous at the start but as it went on I grew into the game," began Ronan. "It was a really good experience.
“I was able to get two assists as well which is good, and I think that I made a mark for myself, so I’m happy with how I played.”
Having featured heavily for the Academy throughout the 2023/24 season, Ronan continued by praising his senior teammates, who guided him throughout his foray into First Team action.
“They’re really good, and when they’re talking to me it makes things easy,” Ronan explained. “When they’re talking to you in a game you have to listen, so it was great to play alongside them. I got a lot of good advice from them throughout.
“I was trying to play how I always play; I like to always be positive on the ball and I think that as the game went on it was easier for me to just be more confident and do things that I normally do.”
Looking ahead towards the remainder of pre-season, the Wales youth international is excited to continue preparations for the campaign ahead with wind in his sails, bolstered by a fine display for the First Team.
“It was a really good result, and obviously looking forward it’s positive as well," he concluded. "Hopefully I can carry on doing well and then see how the season goes. I hope to make an impression, I’ve showcased a bit of what I can do and now it’s a matter of keeping on to work hard.”