«Let us not do ourselves wrong»
Nikos Melissas talked to Novasports TV on the upcoming encounter of PAOK at Veria and his own trajectory so far at the ranks of the “Double-Headed Eagle”
Here is what the young goalkeeper had to say.
On the team’s preparation during the international break:
«We worked hard. We learned each other better and newly-signed players adjusted to the team faster than anticipated. So far we had some injuries and unfortunate results, but I still believe we are on the right track. We are in top form and we are aiming for our first three-pointer this Saturday«.
On what the players learned from the league’s first two matchdays:
«We learned that one doesn’t always get what they deserve in football. We were not bad. I believe we deserved to win the first match and the second, but we were undone by some errors. The team brings out on the pitch what our coach wants and I believe that it will be made evident on Saturday«.
On the coach’s requirements:
«He asks for discipline, a definite playing style and us giving our 100% on the pitch. He also wants us to stick to his guidelines. If we follow them, I trust we will get good results both collectively and as individuals«.
On his place in the team:
«I work alongside two experienced, international goalkeepers. I work hard and I am trying to learn from them and from our goalkeeping coach, who is our daily partner at work. Our position is peculiar and requires patience. Non-stop work and focus on our goals is of the essence, as one never knows when they will get the opportunity to play«.
On his loan spells:
«Getting sent on loan to a second-tier team especially coming from PAOK, is like going to college! One gets practice, faces new work conditions and learns to overcome all obstacles and focus on the job at hand. Despite not working at the high level of PAOK, I matured there and got to live through situations one doesn’t get to experience in the top-flight league«.
On the game at Veria:
«As witnessed in the summer when we played a friendly there, Veria have improved since last season and have a fuller roster. They are competitive with some players standing out. If we play like we can and don’t do ourselves wrong, we will get a great result«.
