- Maccabi are going to use their tickets quota, so they’ll have better support than Dynamo. What do you think of that?
- I remember the game against Aktobe at the NSC Olimpiyskyi. There were only Aktobe fans at the stadium that day. Of course I don’t think it’s normal, but there’s nothing we can do about that. That’s up to UEFA.
- There were episodes in the history of Ukrainian football when games against underdogs were very difficult. What can you advise your players to avoid underestimation of the opponent?
- I don’t think Maccabi are definite underdog. This team managed to outplay Basel. In Israel they created chances opposing Porto, Chelsea and Dynamo. Sometimes they were just unlucky.
They are good team. One shouldn’t say we must defeat Maccabi easily. We won’t rush forward right after the kick-off. We must be patient and work both for defense and attack. Of course it’s difficult to play behind closed doors, but I’m sure our performers understand how important this game is.
- As we all know such country as Russia partially lives for Gazprom company money and uses it for war against Ukraine. Isn’t it weird your team must play surrounded by Gazprom advertising panels?
- That’s not my choice. My business is football.
- Still isn’t it weird for you as a person and citizen of Ukraine?
- As a person I’m totally against Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- Last time Dynamo reached the Champions League knock-out stage when you were a player. Do you often recall those days?
- Frankly speaking I don’t. Of course those were great days for Dynamo. Fans are waiting for us to return to former positions. Now we have a good chance to reach the knock-out stage and I hope we’ll use it. I’m sure our team has future.
- How far is Dynamo current play from your ideal?
- There are no ideal teams. I guess it’s vital for players to be organic whole and I think in recent matches we were. I often watch our previous Europa League matches. Back then when we lost possession 4-5 players didn’t rush back to defend. Today we don’t have performer, who only defend or only attack. Players realize that to achieve something they must be a sole team and work together. That’s what ideal team is for me.
- What scenario you don’t want to see on the field tomorrow?
- I’m not afraid of anything. I just don’t want players to think we are the much-fancied side. We must do everything gradually. Anything can happen on the field. I hope we are ready for any scenario.
- Would you like to take charge of Ukraine national team?
- Our national team has high profile specialist, who’s fulfilled his task. I don’t think about taking charge of Ukraine at all. I’ve congratulated Mykhailo Fomenko and all players on qualification for Euro-2016.
- Can’t you combine work for Dynamo and Ukraine national team?
- I’m too young for that.
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