'As a team, we were angry' – Nathan Tella opens up on Bayer Leverkusen's early season form

Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella has opened up on the difference new manager Kasper Hjulmand has brought to the team following their 3-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday.

The win marked Leverkusen’s first of the season after a difficult start under former coach Erik ten Hag, who was sacked following back-to-back defeats.

The Danish tactician who replaced him, got off to a perfect start in front of the home crowd.

Speaking to ESPN after the match, Tella admitted the squad felt disappointed with their early-season form.

"As a team, I don't want to say embarrassed but we were angry at ourselves," he said.

He noted that the Danish manager has boosted the team’s confidence and instilled greater determination.

"Because, we know how good we can be. Some of the players who are still here and the new players who have come in know the quality of the team. And we weren't able to show, I think Kasper coming in given us a lift."

Reflecting on the win, the Nigerian forward stressed the importance of staying grounded.

"I think we want to focus on ourselves, we don't want to get carried away after our first win of the season. But we are on the right tract.

"It was a game which we needed to show a reaction and get a big result and today we were able to do it at home in front of our home fans."

Tella highlighted the players’ determination to respond after their disappointing start.

"Obviously we know what happened in the past. As a team, if we are to look at ourselves, we knew the standard which we have for ourselves wasn't as good as we know it can be.

"We spoke to ourselves individually, we need to show reaction. As you can see from training, the possession, and we came with intensity and we were able to execute the game plan. Of course it is early days but it was a great start."

The 26-year-old winger featured prominently before being substituted in the 83rd minute for Christian Kofane.

Following the morale-boosting win, Tella will now be aiming to maintain his form as Leverkusen look to rebuild their season under Hjulmand.

Adeyemi Adewale

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