Satisfied with the result and his players’ effort, but always a perfectionist and demanding more in certain aspects of the game, Angelos Anastasiadis spoke to media representatives after the final whistle of the match against Veria:

“We ran more against ACF Fiorentina than today. I was worried whether the players would cope with the match requirements after their effort on Thursday. Time plays against us. Thank God, all players lead a good and disciplined life. They played very well today, as we wanted them to. We created many chances to score and I am satisfied with their effort. In the previous match we made many errors, individually and collectively”.

“We worked more on our defence than attack during the preseason. It’s not easy to convey our message to the players. However they are eager to learn and they put on a huge effort. That is very important for everyone involved with PAOK”.

(When asked about Alexandros Tziolis) A player who runs many kilometers on the pitch can play as central defender. Even a left winger can feature as left full-back. Everything is possible through team effort and will. It would be preferable not to face any injury problems and have everybody feature in their positions. But, when playing back-to-back matches, it’s expected to deal with injuries and fatigue issues”.

“I don’t want to comment on the goal of Stefanos Athanasiadis. I want to comment on the goal we conceded at the end of the match, just like against Zimbru. That goal is like the bargain offers on the shelves of supermarkets. That is unacceptable, it shouldn’t happen. It’s forbidden to let our minds wander. There is no reason to concede a goal like this. You might as well ask me: ‘Why not concede a goal?’ OK, but not like this. The goal we conceded today will take up enough time of conversation in the dressing room”.