Ipswich Town youngster Tete Yengi has been named Player of the Season at Finnish loan club Vaasan Palloseura.
The 21-year-old Australian forward, formerly of the Newcastle Jets, joined Town in September last year following a trial.
He was an unused sub for a Papa John's Trophy game against Gillingham and featured regularly for the Under-23s last season.
In April, Yengi joined Finnish top-flight side VPS. There he contributed seven goals and 11 assists over 27 matches as the team recently finished 10th in a league of 12.
His loan offically ends next Tuesday, with his contract at Portman Road set to expire next summer as it stands.
Speaking about his fledgling career in an interview with Optus Sport, he said: "To experience the professionalism at such a big club (Ipswich), it was so amazing. I just needed more game time at a senior level.
"I love my life here (in Finland). It’s a different city, with different people, and a different culture. I’m really enjoying the challenge.
"I've always been a shy kid, so it has been a challenge adapting to new clubs. But, actually here it was easier than I thought.
"I had a great start in England as well, despite not knowing people. In the A-League I knew everyone. Ipswich was a big jump.
"Finland is a very relaxed country and people are very nice. Playing consistently also helps, plus the football is better suited to my style; technical and a little more tactical which I like.
"It’s a good league with some top players. It’s physical, which makes it very tough against defenders. Playing games here will only make me better."
Yengi’s agent, Andreas Govas, said: "When I first came across him in the NPL (Australia’s second tier), I was immediately impressed. He was special. I was blown away by his data and metrics, and thought 'how is he playing NPL?’
"He’s gone under the radar, due to arriving a little late in the professional game. But now, playing, scoring and doing well, he’s one to watch. When he gets back to England from loan, he will have a point to prove.
"There is strong interest from strong leagues across Europe and I think that’s only going to become more consistent."
Yengi has international ambitions with Australia, despite having recently been overlooked by their U23s, but has also received interest from South Sudan, his father's home nation.
"Joeys (Australia's U23s) would be a great way for me to experience the national team set-up and I know if I go to South Sudan I lose that chance to play for Australia," he said.
"The South Sudan coach has liked what he’s seen from me though and has been following my journey for a while now. He’s seen I’m scoring goals and thinks I would be good addition to the senior team.
"He is aware of my ambition to play for Australia and encouraged me to do what feels right, but I’m open to whoever accepts me and then wherever I feel right, that’s where I’ll be.
"To get interest from them is something very special. But I still have a strong place in my heart for Australia, the place where I grew up.
"I miss home as well, so it would be great to see familiar faces again soon!"
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