“We must give it everything”
Stelios Kitsiou spoke to Novasports TV ahead of the opening play-off encounter against Atromitos at Peristeri.
Here is what the young player of the “Double-Headed Eagle” said about the Peristeri match, the form of his team and his own, the play-offs and also spoke about Ivan Savvidis’s move to pay all outstanding debts of PAOK FC.
His initial statement:
«It’s play-off time. We need to work hard, especially improve the aspects of our game that need work, put on good performances and get the necessary results to top the play-offs».
Regarding the sensation within the squad about 3rd place in the regular season:
«We started off with good results, but then suffered a slump. I believe that now it’s up to us to turn things around and finish at the top».
How did the team spend the period between the end of regular season and their play-off opening match at Peristeri:
«We worked a lot on various aspects. I believe that our coach helped us a lot. Now we must bring it all on the pitch».
Regarding the play-off procedure and the three rivals:
«It will be a tough mini league. All four teams are very strong. We must give everything to clinch top spot. It will be hard».
About his own physical condition:
«When a player isn’t playing regularly, it’s important to work in trainings and be ready when time comes to compete. I worked hard in the session and gave it everything I had. When given the chance, I will be ready mentally and physically».
Regarding his position on the pitch:
«In previous years I played as right interior midfielder, while I spent last season almost entirely as right full-back. Whenever called by the coach, I will be ready to feature in any position he deems necessary».
About the play-offs’ opening encounter at Peristeri:
«We play against a tough team who are very strong at home. We will go there to impose our game. If we do what our coach has asked, we will get a positive result».
Whether this game will be different to the one of the regular season in the same ground:
«These matches are special and it’s imperative not to lose points».
What will be the key to the match:
«We must be strong and maintain rhythm throughout the encounter. We must remain focused until the final whistle».
About the payment of all outstanding debts of PAOK FC by Ivan Savvidis and how does a footballer feel about it:
«This was a class act by Mr. Savvidis and everybody, fans and footballers alike, consider it a very positive step. From our end, we must give it all on the pitch to make our fans happy».
