FC Sheriff mentor Shota Makharadze commented on the test games with Bendery Tigina, talked about the training camp of our youth and the upcoming UEFA Youth League game with Crvena Zvezda.

 

- Shota, what is your coaching look at how the youth team is preparing for the upcoming season?

- We held training camps, and the boys gave their best, performed the work that was planned. Played three good sparring with Bendery Tigina. In general, I am pleased that we have completed the necessary amount of planned actions in preparation for the upcoming season.

 

- Do the boys handle the loads?

- At the moment we have no players who could not cope with this amount of work and physical activity. Functionally, everyone is moving well. Somewhere there is a lack of skill of younger players. It is necessary to work hard, they are sure,let's say, will prove themselves. 

 

- Summarize the three test sparrings with Bendery Tigina.

- It was difficult to find rivals, we wanted to meet with other teams. Thanks to Bender team - they tuned in for us and played three games. The matches showed that it is still difficult for us to play with older and experienced players. There are, of course, good points that please, but there are weaknesses that are worth paying attention to. I repeat that it is difficult for us to play with experienced teams, but it is necessary to go through such a period in preparation.

 

- When training, now do you focus on the game in the Youth League with the Serbs?

- Of course. All preparation is based on this European Cup match. All efforts are connected with this game. On February 12, we will try to look very disciplined, we will strive to show a team game and be psychologically inclined. The knock-out game involves a certain scenario of confrontation. We have great respect for FC Crvena Zvezda, we know how and where they played. In turn, we know ourselves. If we play the playoffs now, then, of course, we deserve it.

 

- Does the psychological burden of responsibility pressure you personally?

- Pressures daily. In the morning I wake up and already feel it. There is a responsibility to everyone who works with you. You try to cope with this, because in our work it is impossible without it.

 

- And how does the team deal with this pressure?

- The team in this regard is easier. There will be one game in this format of the tournament and this is even better for us. I see that the boys can, they want and this is very motivating.

 

- Do not you worry that the players will tell themselves that they have already achieved the best in this tournament?

- We all think differently. For the opponent it’s the playoffs, but for us it’s the final match. A knock-out game and there is no turning back.

FC Sheriff Press Office