Talented French footballer Thomas Pinault has a point to prove. The skilful Colchester United midfielder wants to show the media - written and radio - he is a much better player than they are currently giving him credit for.
Openly admitting that he is far from happy with all sections of the media, who he claims have not given him a fair go so far, Pinault is determined to make the 'hacks' eat their words.
The former AS Cannes youngster said on Friday: "If I'm selected I want to prove to everyone that I'm a much better player than the way they are all marking my performances.
"We are not playing as much of our football through midfield this season so consequently my own natural game is suffering.
"This time last year everything was going well and we were banging in the goals. That meant everyone was bombing forward and I was able to enjoy my passing game.
"We were looking good against some of the best teams in the Second Division which allowed me to produce all my footballing qualities.
"But things have been a lot tougher this time around. We conceded far too many goals last season so we have been working very hard on the defensive side of our game."
The twinkle-toed Frenchman, who will be celebrating his 21st birthday in December, stressed he is having to play very much for the team now.
He said: "A lot of our games have missed out the midfield. The play has gone over the top or round it which has meant me having to dig in and put in more challenges on opponents.
"When I first came to Colchester three and a bit years ago I was very skinny and my challenges weren't the best.
"I'm a lot stronger now and if I can add that uglier side of the game to my repertoire it will make me a better and more complete player."
Pinault, more than most, is desperate to help his adopted club shake off a poor run of results that has left the U's without a win in their last six League and cup outings.
He said: "All my friends back in my home town of Grasse lookout for our results every week and it would be nice to give them a win for a change.
"But an incredible run of long term injuries has definitely hit us hard. We've had to do our best with what we've got and even when every player in the club is fit we've still only got a small squad.
"Those injuries to key players have definitely taken their toll."
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Published Monday October 14, 2002
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