The Yellow & Blue veteran striker is preparing for tomorrow night’s Big Derby against Hapoel Tel Aviv on Matched 18 of the Ligat Ha’Al. With two wins in a row, Maccabi will look to continue on their current roll, however, in a Derby anything can happen. Itzhaki discussed not only the Derby, but playing under interim coach and Sports Director Jordi Cruyff:
“I don’t think that there is any player who doesn’t give 150% in any game he plays no matter who is the coach. Jordi is someone who we all respect and it may not have worked well with the last coach but now we hope things will get a bit better.”
Easy Derby:
“There is no easy game in any Derby. A Derby is a Derby. We are coming into the match full throttle and we will go for the win.”
Hapoel’s desire:
“11 players will be on the pitch for them and they have the fans behind them as well. They will have very hungry players including younger guys also. We have to stay focussed and if we have a chance to score we will. The goal is to win the game and not the goal differential in the game. Let’s just go and score the first one and see from there.”
Coaching change:
“Every coach has their own way and feel about football. Under Shota, I didn’t have many chances to play but that’s football. I’m getting a chance to play now and I’ve been performing. I can play various positions and that’s been a help. I want to continue this way and keep our wining streak going that’s what is most important.”
Chance to play under Shota Arveladze:
“I did have a chance before he left and I scored, but maybe he should have played me earlier, who knows.”
Hapoel’s current squad:
I saw some players that I am not that familiar with but a Derby is a Derby no matter what and that includes a Youth derby. They will come into the game ready to go.”
