«We believe in our potential»
Two days before the encounter against Panathinaikos, Vladan Ivić shared his thoughts about the Toumba clash on Novasports TV. Here is what the Serbian tactician said regarding the match against the Greens, the victory at Peristeri and the injuries suffered by Prijović and Mystakidis.
On the encounter against Atromitos:
«It was a must-win game for us. We wanted to continue from where we had left off against AEL Larissa and take it up a notch, while also trying out things ahead of the remaining games. In my opinion, we did well for most part of the game«.
On his thoughts ahead of upcoming games:
«All our players can contribute to the team whenever asked to play. We are now on the last stretch of the domestic competitions. All the guys are working hard for a place in the line-up and eagerly awaiting a chance to show their worth. Judging by the amount of back-to-back matches ahead, everyone will get their opportunity. Therefore, they have to remain focused, work hard and help upgrade PAOK as much as possible«.
On the injuries and Prijović:
«Thank God, we handled the injuries issue and don’t face the same problems as last year –with the exception of course of the non-muscular injuries of Prijović and Mystakidis. The club and the coaching and medical staff handled the problem and that has reflected on the team’s results as well. We have cut down drastically on the number of injuries. Regarding Mystakidis, he was a regular, we were counting on him and will continue to do so. His injury was a blow for us. Prijović is in very good condition. I am not certain if he will be able to return for the two upcoming games or right after the mini break for Easter. That remains to be seen. His injury called for surgery and clavicle nails. He is a consummate professional and has worked hard these past weeks, sometimes even three times a day. He has completed 85-90% of his rehabilitation process«.
On Sunday’s encounter:
«It’s a clash between the second- and third-placed teams of the standings. It’s a hugely important match for us. We have a tough task ahead, but we believe in our potential and we will fight to win, as we do in every encounter«.
On the absences of Panathinaikos:
«We have scouted them, we know their playing style and also are aware that they have many good players. Even their non-regulars can contribute. We are focusing on our game and working on it, without getting affected by our rivals’ team news«.
On Panathinaikos’s latest displays:
«They have been firing on all cylinders lately. They have quality players and it was only normal that they would get good results eventually. They are strong on all lines. But we focus on our strengths and believe in our potential«.
