A year ago, everything was new for Mix Diskerud.
The Norwegian-born midfielder was in a new city, a new league and with new teammates.
Diskerud was also playing a new position.
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The result was some growing pains, both for the United States international as well as New York City FC.
But now there’s a comfort level for the 25-year-old, who scored the first goal in Club history in a 1-1 draw with Orlando City SC a year ago. Diskerud has adapted to living in New York City, to his teammates and the challenges of playing in Major League Soccer.
And, in the first month of his second season, Diskerud is thriving under Patrick Vieira, who has him playing in the center of the field rather than on the wing.
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“Now I’m playing midfield and that’s what I’ve been playing my whole life,” Diskerud said. “I played three games and have one goal and two assists so I’m happy with that. I can of course keep improving and getting better every day. I want to get a good season with team. I think we can do great things.”
Forward Patrick Mullins has noticed a difference in Diskerud, who regularly plays behind the forwards in Vieira’s numerous formations.
“I think he plays really well between the lines, a little different than a Tommy [McNamara], who I think is really good on the ball between the lines and Mix is really good at recognizing when it’s a good time to penetrate with a run,” Mullins said. “I also think he has the finishing instincts when he gets in the box. He’s shown that at the international level and the MLS level.”
Vieira said he likes Diskerud’s “cleverness,” how he thinks and acts quickly and is comfortable on the ball. He’s impressed as well with Diskerud’s work ethic, which has been on display on the training ground since his return from World Cup qualifiers with the U.S. National Team.
“All the credit is to him because since he’s been back he’s been working really hard, he’s been working really well,” Vieira said. “I’m not surprised he’s been playing well because the way he’s been working all week and the first few months.”
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