On the game against FC Schalke 04:

«We are sad about the scoreline, it’s too harsh. This game shouldn’t have ended 0-3. I can’t say that Schalke didn’t deserve to win, they were superior to us, but that scoreline doesn’t reflect the game. They scored two goals by collecting rebounds in set pieces, while their second goal was due to our bad reaction in the box. This game sure has left us with plenty to analyze. We must focus on specific points, especially in games where we must be focused from minute one until the final whistle«.

On Schalke’s characteristics that he admired and would like to see in his own team:
«They know when to step on the throttle. They are experienced, that was apparent. But I can’t say that I saw something extraordinary, as they didn’t pose many problems to us. They didn’t produce plays the way they are used to. We were good in that aspect. It was a rather even game, with Schalke having a bit more possession. But the scoreline tells a different story. We must look ahead now«.

On whether it’s a defeat to forget or use it as a stepping stone for PAOK’s progress:

«We want to progress even more. We are still in contention in the domestic competitions. We have improved considerably in the league lately, but our current standings are not yet satisfying. We want more points and will aim to reduce our distance from the league leaders«.

Ahead of the Veria game, do they focus more on the players’ physical or psychological recuperation?

«On both. After a long time and a winning streak on the domestic front, we suffered a heavy defeat, conceded many goals and it’s only normal to focus on the players’ morale as well, as they are disappointed. Our next game is in two days. We need to forget what happened on Thursday and boost our players. It’s no shame to lose to a team like Schalke. Nothing is over and we need to look ahead«.

On whether he is concerned that fans will be disappointed and won’t turn out for the team’s next home match:

«No, I am not concerned. It was a European match and, no matter which team we would play against, Toumba would have been packed. We are trying to bring people to our games through our performances and the determination we display in our matches. Only we can do that. If the team play well, produce a plan and results, I am confident that fans will follow. We have already achieved that so far and I don’t think that fans will be disappointed with one defeat. We are all very sad, as we expected the game against Schalke to turn out differently. Life goes on though and we have many games ahead of us. We are in two competitions and will do everything we can«.

On the fans’ applause after the match:

«It’s not the first time that happens. We were also applauded after the loss to Ajax and after league games we failed to win. Fans acknowledge our effort. They acknowledge that everyone is giving 100% and trying to take PAOK to the next level. We will continue doing so and hopefully fans will be by our side«.

On Veria:

«It’s a very tough match. It follows a heavy defeat and we are up against a team fighting for survival. They have good players, especially their attacking forwards. Earlier in the season, we dropped two points in Veria. Now we don’t have such luxury. Victory is a one-way street. I know it won’t be easy and I will convey that to my players«.