Currently, the most talked-about of our expatriate footballers is Murad Mammadov. The young wonderkid, who has transferred to Pafos, scored a stunning goal just two minutes after coming on in the UEFA Europa League's third qualifying round.

Mammadov's grandmother, Afiga Mammadova, spoke to Offsideplus.az about her grandson's performance.

"I’m sure you watched Murad’s game. Did you expect him to come on? What were your feelings when he scored that beautiful goal?"

"Yes, I was watching. Honestly, I couldn’t believe they would let him play. He had been injured in training a week earlier. The doctor didn’t want to let him on the pitch for even a minute, but the coach planned to include Murad in the starting lineup. The doctor absolutely refused, so he only came on in the last 10 minutes. I couldn’t believe my eyes when he scored his magnificent goal just two minutes later. Before the match, he had received three injections and taken one medication. I honestly had no hope that he would score in that condition. When I saw the goal, I was in shock. My joy knew no bounds; it felt as if the world had been given to me. Hearing the fans shout 'Murad Mammadov!' was a special thrill."

"How is he doing health-wise now?"

"He’s doing well and continues his treatment. He is receiving regular massages."

"Do you keep in touch with him? Is he adapting to the team?"

"We talk every day via video call. Everyone treats him very well, and his teammates are kind. Both Murad and his manager, Qadir Hasanov, say there’s no turning back; we will only move forward — towards the peaks."

"Do you think they can defeat Dinamo City and advance to the league stage?"

"God willing. If they work hard, they will definitely succeed."

"What would you like to say to young footballers who look up to Murad?"

"I have always said, and I will repeat: they should work hard, train consistently, undergo additional preparation, and stick to their regimen. Also, clubs should give young footballers a chance to play so they can develop. Progress is not possible with training alone; they need to play to create competition. I wish all young players in Azerbaijan the best of luck."