Joel Bagan spoke to Cardiff City TV after making his 100th appearance for the club in the Bluebirds’ 3–0 win over Mansfield Town.
“It’s been the perfect day." Joel began. "I think for me personally, to get my 100th appearance, it means a lot. I love playing for Cardiff City, I love being here. I had all my family here today to watch the game and to get the three points, three goals, it’s been the perfect day.
“The first half was tough at times. We had to be patient and wait for the opportunities to try and break Mansfield down. In the second half, I think you could see we created a lot more chances. The game started to open up a lot more, and then we got the second and third goals."
The 24-year-old was full of praise for his defensive counterpart Dylan Lawlor and Bluebirds keeper Nathan Trott after Saturday’s game.
“I forget how young Dylan is sometimes when I'm playing alongside him, the maturity and the ability he has, as we saw for the goal where he played that ball in behind. Defensively as well, he’s so solid and looks like a player who’s been playing for years.
“I think it’s about time Nathan had a night off! He’s been busy the last few games and throughout the season. He’s a great keeper."
City have a busy upcoming schedule in December, with seven fixtures in league and Cup competitions. Bagan concluded by highlighting how important the festive period will be for the squad.
He said: “I think this period is so important in the season. We’re coming up to the halfway mark now, we’re in a good position, but the number of games we have now over this Christmas period is a real chance for us as a team to put a good run together.
“Saturday’s game [against Huddersfield Town] will be another tough game, but in this league, we’ve seen there are no easy games. Tuesday is just as important - it’s another chance for us as a team. If we win that game, we’re a few away from Wembley.”
Watch more from Joel, Brian Barry-Murphy, Will Fish and Ryan Wintle on Cardiff City TV.