“20 minutes, that’s all I need” – West Ham player knows his importance, and so do others

Marko Arnautovic is not a man to underestimate himself.

The West Ham player has been involved a big transfer rumour over the past week. Whilst that was started by his brother, aided by himself, the Hammer distanced himself from the rumours following Austria’s latest match.

Arnautovic had come on with around 20 minutes left and managed to get an assist, helping Austria to a 2-1 victory over Northern Ireland.

Following the victory, Heute say the forward praised the team before adding, with a smirk and some pride: “20 minutes, that’s all I need.”

It wasn’t just the West Ham player talking himself up, his teammates were also happy to join in with the praise.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Aleksandar Dragovic is quoted as saying of his national teammate: “With him, more momentum has come into our game.”

Julian Baumgartlinger, also of Bayer Leverkusen, said: “We got better with him. He’s an important factor in our team, and it’s no secret what he is as a player.”

Austria manager Franco Foda joined in: “Marko has extraordinary skills.” 

Arnautovic had been struggling with a knee injury and illness in the run up to the match, which is partly why he only appeared as a late substitute.