PAOK FC President Mr. Ivan Savvidis made the following statement ahead of Sunday’s encounter:

“We all need to put our best foot forward tomorrow, leave everything behind and make a fresh start.

In football there will be more defeats, but we must have the class to overcome them and become stronger than before. Only after we learn to deal calmly with our rage and our enthusiasm, will we be able to conquer the summit.

I want to see our fans united, standing by the team that –now more than ever– needs our love and support. This same team has proven numerous times that they are worth it.

PAOK must contradict those who are longing to stop us with unfair and absurd bans.

On a personal note, I never tire of giving and displaying patience on our tough road towards the peak of Greek football.

I am addressing all members of PAOK’s big family, I am addressing the fans of PAOK: We only need your positive energy, we need you to stand by us in joy and in sorrow, in victories and defeats. Those who can’t bear the burden of loss, will never taste the nectar of victory.

I have never betrayed nor will I betray PAOK’s interests. I am asking you to prove tomorrow that there is no place among us for those who will. Listen to your heart and make the wisest decisions«.