Only recently the game was switched to Orenburg, did that mean a change of plans? 

We were preparing to fly to Orenburg anyway so there are no surprises. Of course, it would be better to play on a natural pitch. The stadium itself is tight, but very nice. No one likes to play on a synthetic surface, especially in summer. But the conditions are the same for both teams. There are problems with the changing rooms, but that's secondary. If we're playing there, then we'll play. 

Orenburg have had many changes in their squad with almost all the key players leaving. What are you expecting from them?

Their team is changing and new players have come. But their organisation remains the same. The team have had two difficult matches, but away matches and home matches are not the same thing. I do not think that everything has changed with them and many players have stayed there too. Everyone knows how they play and we understand what we need to do. Last season, Orenburg surprised everyone with their play and the work of their head coach and players. This season in difficult matches, they only lost by a small margin, but this does not mean anything. I am sure the game will be very difficult. 

How is Smolnikov? 

He is injured and is out for the next few games. We'll find out the date he returns soon, but in the next game he will definitely not play. 

What other positions can Santos and Sutormin play?

Douglas can play in the left and in the centre and we have thoughts to try him in other positions. Sutormin can play in attack on the left and the right, he can also on play wide alongside three central defenders. He is a utility player. 

What are the chances that Terentyev will be moving to Orenburg? And what are your thoughts on how he played against Sochi?

Not only against Sochi, but throughout pre-season he looked good. Last season, he was at Zenit -2 and a back up player in his position as we had Anyukov and Smolnikov. Now there are two players in this position - Smolnikov and Terentyev. I liked how Terentyev has been playing and it's very likely we'll see him on Sunday, like many others. He played well in the last match. 


Vasyutin has returned to Zenit, will we see him in the first team? 

We'll see as we have healthy competition in that position. Lunev is now our number 1 and we completely trust him. We have three goalkeepers now and they will compete for the starting spot. If someone looks better, we will give him a chance. Everyone wants to play and win, that is normal.

How is Dzyuba? 

Better now and I want to pay tribute to Artem. We talked with him before leaving for Sochi. He knew how much we needed him and he would play as much as possible. Thanks to him for going on the pitch and playing well. At the moment, his condition is better. I hope the next match will be ready for 100%.