Vladimir Ivic, the Maccabi Tel Aviv Head Coach addressed the assembled media at the prematch press conference ahead of the Club’s contest at Maccabi Petah Tikva on Saturday night, 21:00 at the Moshava Stadium:
“It’s a strong game against Petah Tikva and we know a lot of things about them. We prepared ourselves to return with a victory and that is our target, We worked hard the last two weeks and the National Team players returned as well after a short break. I’m sure we will be ready for this game.”
Injury status:
“We have some small problems with one or two players but I’m sure they will recover fast. They may to be ready for this first game, Ofir Davidzada and Eyal Golasa but they should be ok for the next few games.”
Having a deep squad:
“We have a lot of games in front of us. From December 1st until January 7 we have 8 games including a Cup game and they schedule is for everyone. We have a lot of players who haven’t played a lot and now they will get a chance, This is something natural and normal. When you have three games per week you have to give a chance to the guys that don’t always play. They want the chance and I’m sure they will be ready to take the chance.”
Transfer market:
“We have an important game coming up and we can speak about squad changes in a month when the transfer market opens. We have a tough month ahead and I’m concentrating on the upcoming games.”
Maccabi’s youth players:
“I watched them twice and my coaching staff went to watch them as well. I believe that we have a lot of young players in the Under-19 squad and some that are loaned out to teams in the second and first division, This is good for the club and the future. One is very talented and can be the future of them team.”
