Sead Haksabanovich is proving the surprise packet of an exciting summer with the manager giving him more minutes than anybody would have expected.

And the former Hamstads midfielder is relishing every minute after a disappointing campaign last term declaring: “It feels good to have those players around me.

“I’m feeling happy that I’m in the squad and it feels good in training to be alongside these players as they take care of me, which is good.

And the 19 year old added: “Last year didn’t go so well for me in the first-team squad, but now it’s all about improving and showing myself.

“It’s important that I show the quality like I did with the pass for Marko and my involvement in our third goal at Aston Villa, as this is what I need for my confidence. Now I need to just keep on going.”

Haksabanovic knows there is fierce competition for places in the attacking midfield and wide positions but refuses to be fazed by such issues.

He said: “They are all great players and it’s tough to get a starting place, but I am here to improve and I’m still young, so it’s good.

He – like the rest of the squad – is loving life under Manuel Pellegrini saying: “He’s good, he’s been at Manchester City and won the Premier League there and been to Real Madrid, so I’m glad to be part of his squad.

“I feel a bit stronger and quicker than I was last year and of course my confidence is the most important thing and that is rising with every game I play.”