West Ham midfielder Havard Nordtveit says he was nervous after being selected to start for the first time since early January against Everton at the weekend.
The Norwegian has suffered various injury problems this season, with the latest being an ankle injury which has kept him out of action for a number of games.
The 26 year old played only his seventh match in his favoured central midfield role on Saturday and impressed Hammers fans as he helped to control the game in the middle of the park. He told the club’s official website he was pleased to start in his best position, and his confidence increased as the match went on:
“I was a little bit nervous at the start, but this is my position and I felt that I came more and more into the game as it went on, especially in the second half. We have some big games to come, and this result stands us in good stead for them. We need to bring what we did on Saturday, with a little bit more, and I’m pretty sure the points will come.”
Nordtveit has also played at right back and centre half this season, but has not convinced in either role. The Norwegian has managed just 19 appearances in all competitions this season so far, providing one solitary assist. He will be hoping for a run of fixtures in his favoured position for the remainder of the campaign.
