Interview: Ulsan Hyundai's Mix Diskerud

After weeks of speculation, Mikkel "Mix" Diskerud's football world tour has finally brought him to the K League, as it was announced last Tuesday the U.S. international has joined KFA Cup holders Ulsan Hyundai on loan from Manchester City. The 27-year-old, who previously played in Norway, Sweden and MLS, talked to Ulsan correspondent Dan Croydon about the move, and what Ulsan fans can expect from their dashing new midfielder.
(Image courtesy of kleague.com)

Dan Croydon: How did the transfer to Ulsan come about?  Did the possibility of a move to Korea immediately pique your interest?

Mix Diskerud: Ulsan's agent Mr. Kwang contacted representatives of IFK Göteborg, and Manchester City FC, plus the people representing me, a little longer back than a month ago, I think. I have to say, I was way more positive than many of the others involved who kind of rooted for other alternatives and other suitors. So, in my mind, credit needs to go to Mr. Fredrik Risp of Sweden, and Mr. Kwang of Korea. He is a very fun guy and a fabulous representative for you guys over here and his country.

DC: What do you make of the club and particularly your teammates so far?

MD: I never, or very seldom, discuss my perception of teammates publicly or with reporters. At least not until I know them very well on and off the field. In this case, I can't say I know any of them apart from what I have seen from them in practice and on the pitch in televised matches.  The club itself is top notch regarding the essentials and it has the foundations for what is needed to have a top-notch team.

DC: David Yoon on Twitter asks - Do you anticipate any major differences between the K League and the leagues you've played in before?

MD: No, I do not. The game we play is football. The rules of the game are upheld well here by very able custodians - the league refs that I have watched before accepting a numbered jersey at Ulsan. In addition, the K League has produced players that on a given night can beat Germany in a World Cup game. So the league has totally earned my respect. However, some fans have not. I have researched some behavior, and I even saw the incident when your proud and dedicated returning World Cup players had eggs thrown at them; an absolute disgrace.

DC: What would you say are your strengths as a player?

MD: Firstly, I can play in all positions on the field. And second, I, more often than others, quickly detect if and when a teammate (and which teammate) is better positioned in an attack than I am.

DC: Who are your footballing heroes?

MD: Magnus Sitter, Erik Mykland, Iniesta, Pirlo, Xavi and Ryan Giggs. On the field that is. Two of them are not my heroes off the field.

DC: Finally, HanGyul Park on Twitter wonders if you plan to learn some Korean.

MD: Yes. Eight words per day. Will that suffice?


Thanks again to Mix Diskerud for the interview. We look forward to watching him over the course of the rest of the season. You can follow him on Twitter @MixDiskerud, and while you are there, follow @KLeagueUnited too for more interviews, match previews, and transfer news.