Vladimir Ivic, the Yellow & Blue Head Coach addressed the assembled media ahead of the Derby against Hapoel Tel Aviv on Monday night (21:00) at the Netanya Stadium on Matchday 5 of the Israel Premier League Ligat Japanika:
“This won’t be an easy match as they scored the first goal last game. They have quality players on the attack and we are expecting a tough contest. We played a match just three days ago against Maccabi Haifa so it’s good that the game versus Hapoel will be on Monday as it will give is another day to prepare. I’m sure we will be ready, but again this is not an easy match. Perhaps the score was 4:1 from the last match but it doesn’t always tell the whole story.”
Comparison to the Thessaloniki Derby:
“It’s a tough match there as well and it was always interesting just like it will be here. There will be fans from both teams at the match while in Greece the only fans allowed in are the host’s. It’s a hard match and we are ready for that on Monday as well.”
Changes in the lineup:
“It all depends on the match and the players as well as how they are feeling. It’s normal that there will be changes when you have 3 matches in a week and we have enough players to do that. Sometimes it may look like a risk by some of the people but I do what I need to the best that I can. I know my team and what they can do and all of them can be in the Starting XI.”
More on the rotation:
“The rotation depends on the players, how many game we have and how the players work over the course of the week. If we have two quality players at a position that can both play well, then why not? There is sometimes a risk as it disrupts the continuity, but we try and think about different things. It’s clear to me. Whoever is best will play.”
The level of the league:
“There are many good clubs and quality players. It’s a long league and you never know what will be by the end of the season. Our goal is to give the best we can every single match and we work to win. We believe in ourselves and we are continuing to work hard.”
Injury status:
“There’s a little problem with Davidzada and he’s still out. He’s working hard it’s just a question of time until he returns. I’m not sure if he will be ready for Monday.”
