FC Dynamo Kyiv head coach Oleksandr Shovkovskyi answered media questions before the Europa League matchday 6 game against Real Sociedad.
- Which players won’t be able to help Dynamo tomorrow?
- We have some losses. Andrii Yarmolenko, Mykola Shaparenko, Taras Mykhavko.
- What do you think of Real Sociedad?
- They’ve been demonstrating stability in the La Liga for years being in the upper part of the table. Real Sociedad had the biggest number of internationals performing for Spain at the last Euro which they won. This is evidence of the excellent direction of strategic development that the team from San Sebastian has chosen. I can say they like to maintain possession, attack through the wings. Unfortunately so far we don’t demonstrate results we counted on in the Europa League, so we’ll aim to demonstrate our best qualities tomorrow.
- In the first part of the season Dynamo played more games than usual, taking into account the new format of European competitions. Is it difficult to maintain the physical conditions of the players at the proper level in the last games of the year?
- One should make conclusions not in the middle of the tournament, but after it ends. With this new format, every team aims to win each game. Obviously the tension on players has increased, especially on internationals. We can see a lot of injuries which is one of the negative aspects. As for our shape, I’ve already said a lot about that. End of the year is always tough, but I know from my own experience that injuries usually happen when you aren’t focused and think of vacation. Players must always be professionals.
- Are Dynamo going to attack or defend against Real Sociedad?
- I won’t tell you our game plan. We can pick any strategy, but the game consists of each particular episode on the field. The game pattern must be maintained in every link – both in attack and defense. Players must fulfil the task they get and demonstrate their best performance. To win this competition you need to play courageously, with your heart, with passion and be ready for anything.
