- It seems your football life has started all over again.
- Of course it has changed, but many things have remained the same. When you play you want to do your best in every match. That’s what I do now, but having more responsibility.
- Did you think of becoming a coach when a player?
- I didn’t constantly think about that, but I always wondered what helps teams to achieve positive result. I was lucky to win domestic leagues in three countries and this experience is very useful. I’ve memorized the most interesting and effective exercises and I’ll use them in Dynamo.
- Which of you former coaches is an exemplar for you?
- With no doubt that’s Valeriy Lobanovskyi. This person always could give a useful advice in any situation. That was a part of his greatness.
- What was the most surprising for you as you moved to England?
- It was the intensity of play. At first it was difficult to get used to such rhythm, but it was a very important stage of my career. Featuring for Tottenham I got a different view of football.
- What were the peculiar features of European coaches?
- Every coach is a different personality, that’s why I saw a lot of new. Players have more personal responsibility in Europe.
- No need to spend the night at training complex before the game…
- That’s right, but players are true professionals there. They understand that even spending the night at home they must control themselves.
- You tell a lot about professionalism. What must be controlled in this case? Player’s weight or something?
- Players must stay fit, so such control is necessary. Weight must be checked from time to time.
- It seems you don’t actually have a vacation…
- That’s not a big deal. I really keep working. We already have a plan of preparation for the new season. We must find out what can help our team achieve higher level of play.
- Is it necessary to communicate with players a lot?
- Sure. It’s necessary to help each performer to fulfill his potential. Taking the field player must leave all negative emotions behind and focus on positive result.
- Dynamo players’ behavior on the pitch leaves something to be desired rather often. Do you agree?
- I’m sure that there must be a strict system of fines in the club. That will make players think if they should do anything that will have a negative impact on their budget.
- Have you already fined anyone?
- I haven’t worked as head coach yet, so I haven’t. First of all it was important to find common ground with players to improve our play within the short period of time. I think we made it in some way.
- Are you talking about the Ukrainian Cup final against FC Shakhtar Donetsk?
- First of all I was satisfied with players’ attitude to each other and dedication. I’m thankful to the team.
- Cooperation with president of the club is very important for any coach…
- We discuss different issues a lot and we haven’t had any problems yet. I’ve been working with Ihor Surkis for many years already and I know how loyal he is to Dynamo.
KOMANDA weekly www.dynamo.kiev.ua
* photo by V. Rasner
