Vladimir Ivic, the Maccabi Tel Aviv Head Coach addressed the assembled media at the prematch press conference ahead of Monday night’s contest against Hapoel Beer Sheva:
“For us each and every game was the game of the season. We are going to play the 2nd place team and in this case and they took the last three championships. They deserve respect and they have a lot of quality players. We will prepare to take the 3-points.”
Having already wrapped up the championship:
“It’s a pleasure to be in this moment in the middle of April. For the players, the staff and everyone in the Club. The players have worked hard for 8-9 months to get here and they are biggest part of the club’s success.”
Competition for playing time:
“All of them will play and we are using all of the players. Some have played more, some less and it depends also on the position that they play. They are professionals and they work hard even when they are out of the squad. It’s very important to me how they train during the week.”
Playing in Europe:
“I spoke with all of them and the club’s board. I made suggestions but that’s for inside the club. I am satisfied with all of the players. But if the club wants to be successful in Europe and play in Europe they are obligated to do some things. I told them what I believe needs to be done and what types of players we need.”
Injury status of Dor Micha and Chico Ofoedu:
“Micha may return for next game, but Chico is still out and has a ligament issue in his ankle. We have to make a decision and hopefully we will know in the next few days as to what we can do with him. It’s a serious problem because he has been out for a month.”
