Context: Maxwel Cornet’s Journey and Reflections on His Career
Maxwel Cornet, who turned 28 on Friday, joined Burnley from French Ligue 1 side Lyon in August 2021 for £12.5 million. The Ivorian international made a strong start with nine goals in 26 matches but was unable to help Burnley avoid relegation. After Burnley’s drop from the Premier League, Cornet made a permanent switch to West Ham United. However, his time at West Ham was hampered by injuries, and his performances did not reach the same heights as at Burnley. Despite this, Cornet remains optimistic as he embarks on a season-long loan at Southampton under Russell Martin’s management.
Cornet on His Memorable Brace Against Southampton:
Cornet: “I remember the game here at the Saints stadium. I scored one with the head and one with the shot,” he told the Daily Echo. “That’s what I try to do.”
Context: Moving to Southampton and Overcoming Challenges
Cornet recounted his struggles at West Ham due to injuries but expressed his readiness to contribute again. He also reflected on the difficulty of the transfer deadline day when his move to Southampton was finalized.
Cornet on His Time at West Ham and Joining Southampton:
Cornet: “I’m in the same feeling as when I first signed for Burnley. I had a tough moment in West Ham with my injuries but now it’s behind me. I’m ready to go again and give the maximum I can to help my teammates and the club.”
Cornet on Transfer Deadline Day:
Cornet: “Deadline day was a tough day, a long day for me. Everything was okay at the last minute, so after that, I was really happy to join this club.”
Context: Cornet’s Relationship with Manager Russell Martin and Tactical Approach
Cornet spoke about his discussions with Southampton manager Russell Martin and how the coach wanted to utilize his attacking qualities in a new role at the club.
Cornet on His Conversation with Russell Martin:
Cornet: “I just spoke with him and he said he likes the things I can bring to help the team. The most important thing is to be aware of what the coach says and just do the maximum on the pitch.”
Cornet on His Playing Style:
Cornet: “I like to ask for the ball between the defenders and in the channel. I try to be as maximum as possible in front of the goal to receive.”
Context: Reflections on Winning the Europa Conference League with West Ham
While his time at West Ham was challenging, Cornet still had positive experiences, particularly being part of the team that won the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023.
Cornet on Winning the Europa Conference League:
Cornet: “It was incredible, to be fair, because we were actually in trouble in the Premier League. To win this trophy was good for the confidence of the guys and we did well. To be fair, it was an amazing moment for us.”
Context: Aiming to Help Southampton Stay in the Premier League
Cornet expressed his determination to help Southampton avoid relegation from the Premier League and highlighted the talent in the young squad at St Mary’s.
Cornet on Southampton’s Target:
Cornet: “For me personally, and I think for the club as well, the target is just to do everything to stay in the Premier League. There are young players here but talented players. They deserve to play in the Premier League so we will fight for that, to stay in the Premier League.”
