Tanner pre-Ipswich Town | I’m playing with a smile
Ollie Tanner spoke to the press ahead of the Bluebirds’ Sky Bet Championship fixture against Ipswich Town this Saturday.
City head into this weekend on the back of two victories, having recorded a league win over Sheffield Wednesday and a victory over Birmingham City in the Carabao Cup.
“We had a very attacking formation against Birmingham, but I think that helped us,” Ollie began. “We played freely, we were fluid and had a lot of the ball. We had about 70% possession and Birmingham are a strong side, but we blew them out of the water.
“The game against Sheffield Wednesday was really good for the team. There’s a good buzz around the Club. Then, to beat Birmingham and keep the momentum going, it shows we’re going in the right direction.
“The manager has come in with his ideas and we were unlucky in the first few games, but you can start to see now that all the players have bought into it and we’re enjoying it. We’re playing a lot better.
“The gaffer has freed me up a little bit and has given me the confidence to play. He’s given me the belief, given me plenty of opportunities and I’m enjoying my football. I’m playing with a smile on my face again and I’m really happy. Compared to last season, I feel like a new player.”
Also impressing for the Bluebirds recently has been Rubin Colwill, who netted in both of the opening rounds of the Carabao Cup against Colchester United and Birmingham City.
Speaking about his City teammate, Ollie continued: “Rubin is an unbelievable player. I knew that from the first day that I walked in last season. This season, he’s a lot freer and he’s playing with a smile on his face. He had a few injuries last season, but he’s a top class player.
“He can be as good as he wants to be. He’s about 6”5, but he doesn’t move like someone who is that tall; he’s quick off the mark and really good with the ball at his feet. He can do things that I’ve not seen players do before.
“We’re quite close off the pitch as well, so when we play on the pitch, we link-up and know each other’s games quite well. It’s quite natural.
“I’m someone that likes to get the ball to feet, run at players, and excite the fans, and I know Rubin is the same.”
City’s trip to Portman Road on Saturday afternoon is their final fixture before the international break.
“I think we go there and play the way we play," Ollie added. "In the last two games, if we stay at that level, we can come away with a result.
“I’m still waiting for my first goal, but I hope it comes as soon as possible. I’ll keep working hard.
“We showed what we’re capable of against Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham, so hopefully we can continue the momentum that we’ve gathered with the last two results.”
