Zan Vipotnik Reflects on His Role as a Striker and Goal-Scoring Drive

Zan Vipotnik appears to be progressively adapting to the Championship. The Slovenian forward has made 16 league appearances for Swansea City, starting in 10 of those matches, since joining the club just before the season began. He has netted three goals, comprising two straightforward close-range efforts and a powerful shot during the victory against Derby County eight days prior. Vipotnik described the experience at Pride Park as a “nice moment,” but expressed a desire for more such occasions. He stated, “Of course,” Vipotnik says, “I am a striker.” He added, “If I play, I like to score. I like to help the team also with good passes, with pressing and recoveries that the coach [Luke Williams] likes. I like to help and the goals will come if I help the team.” Vipotnik further explained, “But goals give you energy as a striker. It’s normal that we are not happy if we don’t score.” Since Vipotnik’s arrival in Swansea, Williams has consistently asserted that the robust forward possesses the necessary attributes to succeed in the second division. Vipotnik has demonstrated his ability to execute powerful shots with both feet during training sessions at Swansea. However, the club’s supporters have not yet witnessed this consistently during games, although his goal against Derby – where Vipotnik controlled the ball with a single touch before striking it into the net with his weaker foot – offered a glimpse of his potential. At 22 years old, Vipotnik remains a young player, accumulating experience and expertise as he endeavors to establish himself in the Championship. Last season, he made a strong impression in France’s second division, scoring nine goals for Bordeaux. Nevertheless, financial difficulties at that club resulted in an unpredictable pre-season, culminating in Vipotnik’s transfer to Wales on a free. Vipotnik commented, “We didn’t know the situation, what will be with us and the club.” He continued, “But for me I found a good solution to come to Swansea. I feel really good in Swansea. My dream was to play in English football and now I am here I like to enjoy it.” He expressed gratitude, stating, “The team is amazing, the staff – everyone. I’d like to say thank you to everyone for welcoming me like this. I hope I will give back with goals.” Vipotnik described the demanding Championship schedule as “a little bit crazy,” yet believes the league offers the perfect environment for him to make his mark in English football. His next opportunity to perform will be at Luton Town on Saturday, where Vipotnik aims to further improve his form and physical condition following his “really small” pre-season. He stated, “I feel good but I know I can improve a lot.” Vipotnik added, “I know I can be in the game more. I have few touches in the game, but if I score everything is nice.”