Zane Albarus knows that Gillingham need to be much better following their 3-0 defeat to Luton Town in the Carabao Cup.
The League One side showed their quality throughout the game, creating many opportunities. However, Albarus was disappointed with the manner in which the Gills conceded a couple of the goals.
The young midfielder came up against the likes of Jordan Clark and Kasey Palmer, who have plenty of experience playing in England's top two divisions. He enjoyed the challenge of competing against the two Luton players, knowing that it will help further develop his game.
Albarus was awarded the sponsors' 'Man of the Match' award, but knows that there is room for improvement, as he hopes to show that there is much more to his game as the season develops.
Assessment of the performance...
Overall, disappointed with the general performance of the squad because of the way we conceded, especially the last two goals; it wasn't good enough. We have been told that by the Gaffer as well at the end of the game, but we have to respect that Luton are a very good side and will probably be on the top side of League One, and potentially push into the Championship.
There are some positives to take from the game, but we also need to know that we need to be better, especially next week when the league officially starts.
Playing against the likes of Jordan Clark and Kasey Palmer...
For me personally, I want to be playing against the best players, so having that challenge and that experience to play against top midfielders and being up against them and trying to match them in duels, I think that is what is best for me. As a young player, I want to be playing against the best, improving myself and getting better, reaching their level and hopefully exceeding it as well.
For me, personally, it's exciting to be able to play those types of players.
On starting the game and an assessment of his individual performance...
I was really happy to start because, hopefully, it's a reflection of my pre-season that I was performing well in that.
In general, with my performance, I was flattered that I got the fans' man of the match, but personally, I think it could be better. Hopefully, I can display that throughout the season that I can perform better than that. I say personally, in possession as well, I can show a bit more quality and composure.
Zane's exclusive interview with Gills TV can be seen here.
