On PAOK sitting at the top of the standings and how is that changing things in the team:

«Nothing changes. We work fine, train well, we are self-confident, the atmosphere within the squad is excellent and we continue on the same pace«.

On PAOK’s latest signings and the window for free agents:

«Hopefully the transfer window will close soon. This period is the worst for a coach. There are changes made, menacing the balance of the team. That goes for arrivals and departures as well. The fans eagerly await to watch the newly-acquired players in action. We need to be patient and let the newcomers adjust to our team. Moulin is an exceptional player. He plays in the centre of midfield, contributes in game creation, has quality and a quick mind and can help us with his strong personality and experience. Mihojevic is an investment for the future. He has good assets and a strong personality as well. Both players suit our team and will prove helpful. I am not expecting more transfer moves. We have a game on Sunday and I am focusing exclusively on that. We already have three players that we need to integrate in the team, in official matches and there is pressure. I am happy with my squad«.

On Azevedo and his expected debut:

«I don’t remember exactly my thoughts before the Agrinio match. Azevedo came along in order to be with the rest of the squad and experience the atmosphere within. Today he completed his third week of trainings with us, he is reaching a good level. He might not start the Giannina game, he might get some playing time, but he will be definitely ready for our next match. His integration must be smooth, in order to preserve team balance«.

On Kaçe and Mystakidis going to Panathinaikos:

«I believe it was a good option for them, especially for Mystakidis who has returned from a lengthy absence due to injury. He plays in a position where we have many alternatives and he wouldn’t get much playing time. Kaçe, on the other hand, is a player I appreciate from way back. He stumbled on a player of the same characteristics and I am sorry he didn’t get more time in our team. I am happy though, because he joins a team that will help him«.

On the encounter against PAS Giannina:

«I am expecting a tough game, a very hard game, like a final. PAS Giannina put on a fight on the pitch, we know each other very well and I believe our match will be decided by details«.

On how his troops are preparing for the match:

«Every match is a final, but that shouldn’t stress us. We have been dealing with ‘finals’ since the start of January«.

On the team sensing the fans’ thirst to attend the Ioannina match and what the “Double-Headed Eagle” need in order to stay at the top of the standings:

«Our fans’ eagerness is positive, keeps us motivated and enhances our sense of responsibility. We don’t have to analyze things all the time. We need to take it one game at a time. That should suffice«.

On PAS Giannina remaining undefeated at home:

«Every match has its specific aspects. We need to be focused and take advantage of every favourable situation«.

On the team’s work and their room for improvement:

«In football, situations change day by day. One or two signings can create totally different dynamics within the group. Players know what they are supposed to do. Sometimes they play impeccably, but on occasions they have a tough time on the pitch. We need some hard-fought victories, like the one in Agrinio, in order to build character. We are focusing on our game and continue strongly«.