Regarding how the team played collectively, we are satisfied, we controlled the ball well, created chances, and managed to score two good goals. I am especially happy for Mateo Cassierra, who’s had a number of chances in matches, but unfortunately rarely scored. Today he played well and it’s an additional joy. It wasn’t an easy game, like all matches in the RPL, but this win is absolutely deserved. We will go on to the next match which is in two days, and those who didn’t play will be available for the Cup game, while others will miss Tuesday’s match. It's a very tight fixture list, but we have to be ready for everything and play well.
What is Malcom’s future with the team?
Before the match I said that the club is now discussing a possible transfer. As soon as there is any fresh news we will inform you immediately. So to avoid any injury in this situation, we decided not to play him.
There were no Zenit fans here today, did you notice the lack of support?
Of course, without fans matches feel very different. We missed the support of our fans, and we all want to play in full stadiums with a lot of noise. We regret that we have to accept this situation, although it doesn’t depend on us.
Regarding the arrival of right-back Mario Fernandes, does this mean Alexei Sutormin will play in another position ?
Alexei played in a different position today and he can play in many positions. I have said before that when we play with four defenders, this is not ideal for him. He prefers to play in a five or in attack, because he is a creative player. Now he has a great opportunity to move forward and show his creative abilities.
In the first half, Zenit did not have a single shot on target. How much did Aleksandrov's removal make the game easier in the second half?
In the first half there were few chances due to the deep defence from the other side. If there are no top players who can individually decide a game with one special moment, then it’s difficult to open up such defending. There were chances and a game is 90 minutes, not 45. I am happy with how we played in the first half. We controlled things and played attacking football, but other teams often choose to play defensive against us, play deep and focus on counterattacks or set pieces.
How do you motivate your players, given that your players have won everything in Russia in recent years? And will Nikita Goylo, who was previously at Pari NN but is back with you be given a chance?
Regarding Nikita we are interested in our young players getting us much game time as possible. In pre-season we looked at all our goalkeepers and we consider all of them, how to properly develop them and progress. The motivation is to win and each of us must do our job and enjoy it. We know that things cannot continue forever, but we want to extend it as long as possible.
