Michael Obafemi Birmingham

Michael Obafemi | The Jack Army’s support gives me chills

23rd October
First team

Michael Obafemi has expressed he has “fallen in love” with the Jack Army and says the support he receives motivates him to score more goals after netting his first goal for the club in Saturday’s defeat at Birmingham.

The summer signing who made the switch from Southampton on deadline day had been sidelined since September’s 3-3 draw against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road due to ongoing muscle problems but made his return as a 57th minute substitute in Saturday’s match at St Andrew’s.

“It feels amazing to score my first goal for the club, it was a long time coming,” said the 21-year-old.

“That was a nice feeling but it’s just disappointing that we couldn’t get the three points to round off a perfect week.

“It was all about just getting that first goal to get me started and I finally got that so I’m happy.”

The striker has faced a tough spell after sustaining an injury so soon after joining Russell Martin’s side but has continued to support his team-mates from the stands.

“It’s been difficult, I’ve had a lot of injuries in the past as well but I’ve come to every game, supported the boys and cheering like I’m on the pitch or like I’m one of the fans,” he added.

“It hurts me that I can’t help the team but I will still support the team no matter what, whether I’m on the pitch or on the bench.

“The medical staff have been great, they haven’t rushed me at all. They just said for me to come back in my own time and when I feel ready, so I’m thankful for them and hopefully I’ll have an injury-free season.”

Fans Birmingham City

The 1600-strong Jack Army sang Obafemi’s name following his introduction to the pitch on Saturday afternoon, a support that the striker is incredibly grateful for.

“It’s an amazing support, I’ve already fallen in love with the fans,” smiled Obafemi.

“The support they give me is amazing and gives me chills on the pitch. It makes me want to score goals and that’s what I’m here to do and hopefully I can do more of that.

“We want to get back to winning ways and hit the ground running straight away. We’ve got a full week to prepare for Peterborough and our focus is to get three points.”