Emiliano Buendía says he feels in “great shape” heading into Aston Villa’s upcoming Premier League fixtures.
The 25-year-old’s fine form in January, including the winner against Everton last time out, saw supporters vote him as their Player of the Month.
And following a period of adaptation after his summer move from Norwich City, the playmaker is feeling back to his best.
Buendía said: “It was a great month for me. I’m feeling much better in the last few months.
“I’m feeling in great shape and I’m feeling comfortable with my team-mates. It was a tough beginning for me, but I feel settled now in the last few months. I’m looking forward to what we have ahead.”
He added: “As a player, it’s beautiful to have this type of award. It means that I’m playing well and could help the team in the last games.
“It’s important to help the team get the maximum points for us and to keep working.”
On the back of his strong showings in claret and blue, Argentina called him up for their recent World Cup qualifiers, where he achieved a lifetime ambition by winning his first senior cap.
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Buendía hopes he can remain in his country’s plans for the World Cup in Qatar if he continues to impress for Villa.
“This year is a special year. We’ve got the World Cup at the end of the year,” he said.
“We have a strong squad in my country with a lot of very good players, but it’s a dream for me.
“I know that I have to do good things in my club to help my club and have the chance to be involved in the national team."
Following a two-week break in top-flight fixtures, Premier League football returns to Villa Park when Leeds United visit on Wednesday.
The sides are yet to play this season, but Buendía understands the challenge that Marcelo Bielsa’s team will pose.
He said: “They are a tough team, everyone knows that. They are a strong team who fight and try to make it a difficult game.
“We have really good players, a strong squad and we have a great chance at home to get the three points.”
Watch the full VillaTV interview with Emi below...