Ilzat Akhmetov: “We’re traveling to Belgrade with an aim to win”

The Zenit midfielder answered the journalists’ questions ahead of the friendly against Crvena Zvezda.
Ilzat Akhmetov: “We’re traveling to Belgrade with an aim to win”
How are you spending this international break? How are you feeling?

The training process is going well. We had some time off to rest, but now that we’re all recharged and full or energy, we’re back to our regular schedule. We’re doing our best to get ready for the upcoming friendly and for the official matches when the season resumes. 

Are you expecting to be in the starting XI for the match in Belgrade this Saturday? 

I’d certainly love to be in the starting XI. Although this decision is made by the manager. Hopefully I will receive the playing time.

You have only one minute of playing time for Zenit in the official matches so far. Who are you competing with?

I’d say that my competitors are the players of midfield and offense. I’m not going to list them all as I think it’s already clear who they are. 

Have you been to Serbia before? What are your expectations of the match and what do you already know about Crvena Zvezda?

I’ve never been to Serbia. Crvena Zvezda are a team of the Champions League level, therefore the game will be interesting and equally as difficult. We’re getting ready and mentally preparing ourselves for a tough match. I think everybody wants to show what they’re capable off, so we’re traveling for that match with an aim to win.