Afellay: I can add something to the team

Ibrahim Afellay is confident that he possesses the qualities to become a key figure at Schalke.

The versatile Dutchman has yet to really live up to the high expectations at the Konigsblauen after joining from Barcelona on a one-year loan deal this summer, but Afellay has little doubt that he can add something special to the team.

"I'm feeling very well and I'm slowly gaining match rhythm. It's hard to remain patient. I really love the game and I'm raring to go," Afellay told De Telegraaf. "I know that I can add something to the team. I understand the coach's point of view, though. I have to prove my worth whenever I get playing time.

"It's the same with the national team. Of course, there's a lot of competition, but that's only normal when you're surrounded by the best players Netherlands have."

Afellay is currently away on international duty as Holland locks horns with Andorra on Friday evening.