The Brentford goalkeeper has started both of Iceland’s Nations League matches in this international window and now wants the side to turn its positive opening into promotion.
“We just need to show that we don’t belong in this League C and finish this group,” the Brentford goalkeeper said.
Iceland drew 1-1 with Estonia before beating Luxembourg 3-0, leaving Hákon encouraged by the way the side has begun its campaign. He now wants the squad to turn those results into a return to League B.
The goalkeeper also revealed that he had doubts about joining up with Iceland after suffering a back problem in the build-up to the fixtures.
“I was a little bit worried that I would have to pull out of the squad,” he said.
Hákon had missed one Brentford cup match because of the injury but said the decision to rest was the right one.
“I missed one game in the cup with Brentford, but yes, it was a good decision.”
The 25-year-old has otherwise been able to manage the problem and complete the international assignment. His performances have also strengthened his position with Iceland at a time when his club opportunities remain limited.
Hákon is the only member of Iceland’s squad playing in the Premier League and joined Brentford from Swedish club Elfsborg almost three years ago. However, regular league football has been difficult to secure.
“It was a big step from Sweden and it took a little time to adapt. But as things stand now, I feel very good.”
He has featured more regularly in cup competitions than the Premier League and accepts that he needs to keep pushing for a larger role at Brentford.
“I’m training with a very good team, but of course I want to play and the goal is to play for Brentford. But if I’m not going to play something... I’m not going to spend my whole career as Brentford’s reserve goalkeeper,” Hákon said.
His immediate focus, however, is on Iceland’s Nations League campaign and the opportunity to move the country back into League B. The goalkeeper is keen to build on the trust shown by the national team manager and continue competing for his club place.
In an interview with RÚV, Hákon said the back issue had been manageable after a period of rest. He can now concentrate on maintaining his place for Iceland while continuing to push for more opportunities at Brentford.