Defender of FC Dynamo Kyiv Maksym Korobov spoke about his adaptation to the first team and the team’s mindset ahead of the match against FC Polissya Zhytomyr in the 19th round of the Ukrainian Premier League.
- Maksym, it’s been two days since the match against FC Inhulets Petrove (2:0) in the quarterfinal of the Ukrainian Cup. You didn’t take part in that match but were with the team. Have the emotions from reaching the semifinals already settled down?
- I didn’t feel very strong emotions because it was only the quarterfinal. We were supposed to win that game and we did. Our objective was to get the victory - and we achieved it. Now we move forward.
- In a few days there will be a match against Polissya in the league and it will be quite important for the standings. Did your teammates emphasize the importance of this match?
- Right now we’re in a situation where every game is important for us. We prepare for every match with the mindset that we must win regardless of the opponent. We all understand the situation in the standings. There should be no draws or losses for us - only victory.
- For Dynamo the match against Polissya will be the first away game in the second half of the season. Are there differences in preparation compared to home matches?
- This will be my first away match with the first team so we’ll see.
- After your debut for the first team of Dynamo a lot of attention has been focused on you. Have you gotten used to being in the main squad? Has the adaptation period passed?
- I think the adaptation period has passed. I try not to pay attention to what people say about me - both positive and negative - because I need to work on myself and become a better version of myself every day. I don’t feel anything special like I’m already a first-team player but I thank the head coach for the trust and my teammates as well.
- Training took place in a positive atmosphere with jokes. How important is it to have a good team atmosphere before such a serious match?
- Of course it’s good when everyone has a smile and a good mood. It’s not only about laughing and joking but also about giving 100% in training. It’s really good when the team has such a positive atmosphere.
- What do you expect from the match against Polissya? What can you say about the opponent?
- It’s not an easy team and they have very good players. But we will prepare only for victory.
