I caught up with Cardiff City forward Michael Reindorf, as we spoke about 'Big Mike's’ career to date, his start at Cardiff and his targets for the season ahead...
What type of player would you say you are?
I'd say I'm a creative player, I like to get on the ball and make things happen, be direct at my defenders, cause havoc to the back four and get as many goals as possible really. I feel like I'm an out and out striker, but likes to get on the ball a lot.
What's your football journey been to date?
As a little one, I started off at West Ham from under ten's to eleven's. Then went down into grassroots football, and then I ended up going to Leyton Orient, from under fourteen's to around under sixteen's, then I got bought by Norwich, and I was there from sixteen's to First Year Pro. Then I moved over to Cardiff as a second year pro.
Who's the best player you've played with?
I would say the best player I've played with is Jon Rowe, in training an absolute joke.
What attracted you to Cardiff?
The club when I came over, a very good environment, I feel like it's not just a team, it's a family, everyone's very much together and I feel like we stick up for each other, so I think that's the main thing. I feel like in football you need the right environment around you, and I feel like Cardiff was the place.
It's been a manic start for you at Cardiff - What have you made of it?
It's been absolutely mental, until today I still can't believe some of the things I've achieved so far. I had targets when I came here and I feel like I've set them out already, there's still more that I'm pushing for, but so far I've loved every single moment and I'm pushing for more.
Describe that feeling of stepping onto the pitch against Bristol Rovers.
I got told I was going to come on at half-time, didn't come on at half-time, then around the sixty something minute I ended up coming on, putting on my shirt I was just absolutely so nervous, coming on that pitch I was really nervous , but I feel like as a footballer there's times where you realise this is your moment, and I felt like that was my moment. When I came onto the pitch, all the nerves went away and I was really confident and I was ready to start the game, like I was ready to kick on. Especially as a substitute, it's sometimes a bit harder to get into the game, but I feel like I came into the game quite comfortable.
You've seemed to instantly gain the backing of supporters, with plenty calling for you to get a regular spot in and around the first team - How does that make you feel?
I would say it makes me feel quite confident. Knowing I have the backing of the supporters, knowing that there's people out there wanting me to be involved in the first team squad, knowing that every time I step out onto the pitch that the fans are going to be on my side, it's a good thing because I know that it's not easy as a player, especially as a young one, to come on and make an impact, do well, be hard-working for the squad and stuff like that. I feel like it makes it me feel very confident within myself.
Have you set any personal targets for this season - If so what are they?
At the start of Pre-Season, I said that by Christmas, I'd want to hit the target of fifteen goals in all competitions, and I'd say my last one is just to get as much first team involvement as possible, even if that's the Cup or in the league, whatever it is just try and be involved with the first team as much as possible.
Who's one Academy teammate that has surprised you since you've joined?
I would say Freddie Cook. Probably one of my best mates at the club, just a great human being to be around, great character, he's a leader in the changing room, and on the pitch. I think he sets an example to the younger boys as well. Very good defender, kept a couple clean sheets, doing well at the back. What a top lad he is.
Finally, have you got a message for those supporters that have grown so fond of you in your short time at the club?
I'm looking to give 110% each and every time I step out onto the pitch. I'm looking forward for you guys to see that. I feel like there's many more to come, many more opportunities where you guys will see me, more of Michael Reindorf. Thank you guys, thank you for the support.
Big thanks to Mike for answering the questions!
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