Nekounam, who despite his role as a defensive midfielder has scored seven goals this season, told Goal.com, “Thank God that I started the Persian new year by striking a goal and I hope I will be able to have a successful year.”
“I am happy that we were able to win. Espanyol are close to us in the standings and we needed the victory.”
Nekounam is confident that Osasuna can survive.
“We are in control of our destiny and need to continue playing well. Osasuna is a quality team but unfortunately our standing in the table has made our situation tense and difficult. We have played some good matches throughout the season but being toward the bottom of standings has overshadowed the good matches we have had.”
“I always want to be an effective player and I work hard to influence the game. At the beginning of the season, I set a goal for myself. I wanted to score ten goals. I am on target to achieve that,” he added.
Nekounam wants to repay the club for sticking by him during his long-term injury lay-off last season.
“Coach Jose Antonio Camacho and I have a good relationship and he knows I am doing all I can to help the club. I love the people of Pamplona and will never forget their kindness and support. While I was injured last year, they remained on my side. We have to stay in the league and with a great coach like Camacho, I trust we will,” Nekounam concluded.