«We aim to win»
Vladan Ivić spoke to Novasports TV about the upcoming encounter against Asteras Tripolis, the clash against ACF Fiorentina and Panagiotis Glykos.
On the encounter against ACF Fiorentina:
«It was our opening match in the UEFA Europa League group stage. We earned a point playing well against a tough rival. I am satisfied with my players’ will and determination –and I want them to continue like that«.
On the toughest aspect of the encounter against the Viola:
«They are a tough and quality team, with tall and strong players. It was difficult to negotiate set pieces. I was expecting that, due to their height, they would cause us problems. We encountered a few, but nothing out of the ordinary. ACF Fiorentina also have many quality players in attack that can be threatening at any time. But our team worked well as a whole and I am satisfied with our effort«.
On the tactical change and if he will repeat it in the future:
«Tactics applied during the game depend on the rival. I saw some problems and decided to change formation. We kept them at bay after the substitution and weren’t threatened. It depends on various factors, but, if needed, we can change our style of play«.
On PAOK’s back-to-back matches:
«That is what we have been preparing for all these months. We wanted the league to start and I believe we are ready for back-to-back matches. We are satisfied with our roster and with the fact of having everyone available. Everyone is making an effort to gain a position in the starting line-up and that is very important in my eyes. We have a big roster and we will use all our players«.
On Asteras Tripolis:
«I know our rivals well and their coach, under whom I played in the past. He is a very good coach. After their bad result in the opening day, they will try to make up for it in the second match. That is of no importance to us, as we are focusing on our team and aiming to win. We must be disciplined and keep a clear objective. The upcoming match is always the most important in our calendar. We have a tough away encounter to negotiate against a very good opponent«.
On Panagiotis Glykos:
«A team starts building from their goalkeeper. Glykos has been at the club for years, he works a lot on a daily basis and knows perfectly well what PAOK is all about. He is a consummate professional and his performances reflect his work. I am satisfied with his displays and, above all, with his effort«.