Interview with Christian Lamb on SpVgg Greuther Fürth U17

Canadian Christian Lamb interviewed on his time with pro German club SpVgg Greuther Fürth U17

In the realm of soccer, tales of determination, hard work, and adaptability often serve as the cornerstone of success. For Canadian striker Christian Lamb, (17), these qualities have not only defined his journey but also transformed his life in less than a year. Nine months ago, Christian's soccer path took a pivotal turn as he participated in the IFX Summer Camp in Germany. There, he was exposed to the rigors of training and competing at a highly competitive level for his age, reigniting the passion and admiration he had nurtured for German football since childhood. Just a few weeks ago, we reported on Christian's successful transfer to SpVgg Greuther Fürth U17s, competing in the U17 Bayernliga against the likes of Bundesliga clubs such as FC Bayern München II, 1.FC Nürnberg II, FC Augsburg II to name a few. Despite initially playing as a center midfielder, he has begun to score goals in both, friendly and official matches, fueling his excitement to contribute to the success of "das Kleeblatt".

IFX Nürnberg: We would like to know how you are doing in Germany?

Christian L.: Things overall have been going well for me in Germany. In the past 9 months, I have been in many different living and football environments. There’s been many challenges along the way but I think my ability to adapt has been important. Being in all these different environments has definitely helped me gain experience and learn from others around me.

IFX Nürnberg: Tell us a bit more about Greuther Fürth. Did you expect such a professional environment?

Christian L.: Greuther Fuerth definitely offers a very professional football environment in all aspects like the coaching staff, players and club support. I think having several trials at clubs like Aue, Chemnitz and Cottbus helped prepare me for this new environment. The environment is obviously very demanding with high standards since it’s their goal to develop players eventually into the first team.

IFX Nürnberg: What is a typical training day like with Greuther Fürth U17?

Christian L.: The training schedule is pretty structured and planned. We usually start with focus on stability and strength. Then once we get outside the focus is more on tactical, formation and high intensity small sided games.

IFX Nürnberg: Training and playing with Greuther Fürth, how much have you improved your technique and your understanding of the game?

Christian L.: Being on the training ground everyday has definitely improved my game both technically and how I see the game. I’ve definitely had to change my playing style to suit the team since it’s very different from the previous clubs I’ve played at.

IFX Nürnberg: It's a dream in life for every footballer to reach the pro leagues, and you are on the right path. What would you say have been the main contributing factors to your success?

Christian L.: I think my main factors of success so far has been my perseverance, effort and flexibility. Also maintaining that balance between football and school has been important for me.

IFX Nürnberg: What are your teammates like? Could you tell us a little about the league you are competing in?

Christian L.: The team is mostly made of German nationals who live in different nearby cities so we mostly only see each other at the pitch. The league seems well-run and is at a high level. The team definitely has been improving a lot and I expect that we will finish very well over the next month.