Happy Marcelino Nunez is hoping a productive international break with Chile can help him with Norwich City's Championship play-off mission. 

The 24-year-old was on the scoresheet as Chile ran former world champions France close in their final international of the break, with his attentions now turning back to domestic matters with Norwich. 

Nunez's influence has grown for City in recent weeks, and his performances in midfield have allowed David Wagner to move Gabriel Sara into a more advanced position. 

Two productive performances and being around his national teammates have teed Nunez up nicely for the final eight Championship matches, with Norwich hoping to finish in the play-offs. 

“Personally, I am happy. I have to continue improving now for Norwich. I think positively because we are in the playoff places, and the objective is to reach the Premier League," Nunez told Chilean radio station ADN.

"When I come to the national team, the atmosphere is always super nice. What the 'Golden Generation' generates for me as a young person is always wanting to improve, play in the big leagues, and bring a lot of joy to the country."

Nunez was reflecting after Tuesday night's 3-2 defeat to France in Marseille as Chile continue to ramp up preparations for this summer's Copa America. 

This was Chile's first international camp under new boss Ricardo Gareca. He deployed Nunez in a slightly different role, an experience the Norwich midfielder enjoyed—especially in the difficult France test. 

Eastern Daily Press: Marcelino Nunez has been an influential member of Norwich City's midfield in recent weeks.Marcelino Nunez has been an influential member of Norwich City's midfield in recent weeks. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

"I'm happy for the team and with the performance. We knew the rival we were facing, the runner-up and former world champion, and we played as equals," Nunez said. "We had the ball and created many scoring chances.

 “The coach has had many conversations with me. First, when he arrived in Italy, he told me to let myself go, that he wanted me in a looser eight position and to go from area to area. 

“That gives you a lot of peace of mind and confidence, and that is essential. Obviously, it is difficult for him because he has only a few days to prepare, but he told us to let go and give our best. We showed that in both games.”