The head coach of Shakhtar Donetsk, Ihor Jovicevych, told how his team is approaching the first match against French Rennes in the 1/16 finals of the Europa League, which will take place next Thursday, February 16, in Warsaw.
"We've had a few problems at these meetings - small injuries, viruses, fevers that knock us out of rhythm. Therefore, we were very rarely in the full squad, and this was reflected in the training process, where we have to get the form we want to have before the championship matches, before the Europa League.
But in the last days, we got together, stabilized, and the control game with Sarajevo (4:0) showed that because of emotions, we conducted the last test against Rennes, tasted victory and confidently approached the last microcycle in Warsaw, where we will still prepare to Rennes. I can be satisfied with the team's energy, structure, scored goals, combinatorics. Of course, there is still a week to work on certain segments and I think we are preparing very well for Rennes.
Traore? It is obvious that he is ready for a duel with Renn. You can compare his game in the championship and now: he actively participates in the development of team actions, has more confidence, more often gets into areas where he is dangerous for the opponent. Those qualities that he has are very important for us, because we can play a pass in the third through him, he can receive the ball himself, turn, pass or score a goal.
Traore is a forward of undoubtedly very high quality. We have to wait a little longer, although I am very pleased with his progress. Absolutely convinced that he will be the best addition to our team, especially when he gets fit. We waited because we know his qualities. But after the injury, it was really difficult for him, and now I'm very happy that he scored and took an active part in team activities," Jovicevich said.