On the pressure of the league race and the atmosphere in Thessaloniki:

«We don’t focus on that pressure, despite the coach being asked relevant questions by the media. We are trying to do our job and prepare every match as best as we can. The whole city has been conveying but one message: win the domestic double«.

On winning tough away encounters and the difference since the beginning of the season:

«Our situation now is much different to the first months of the season, as the players have comprehended the situation. We can analogize our trajectory to building a house. It’s like asking on the first week how’s construction going and then asking again on the last week of works. The dynamics of a team are changing constantly. A player can suffer an injury, get in form or leave or someone else can be acquired. The most important aspect is to keep a steady team philosophy«.

On Azevedo’s condition and on Vieirinha being fielded in his natural position:

«Azevedo played his first 90 minutes and is a full member of the team. I don’t know if it’s the right time to inflict changes on the team, as we have acquired balance. Vieirinha has put on some very good displays in the position he occupies now«.

“Attack wins games, defence wins titles”, a famous quote says. Does he also share that opinion?

«Regarding the saying, our fans stay by our side regardless of how we play. Being boosted like that, our players feel real footballers. A team’s organization is extremely important. There is much tactical work on a daily basis. It might be boring for the players, but it makes the difference eventually«.

Whether he considers AEK or Olympiacos as the rival to beat in the league? Or does he believe that PAOK have only themselves to fear?

«We need to focus on our own game and that is the most important, starting with our encounter against AEL Larissa on Monday. That also applies to the players. Their focus and energy shouldn’t be distracted by what our rivals do. They should only concentrate on our game«.