Dynamo U-19 head coach Ihor Kostiuk spoke about the preparatory period for the new season in the Ukrainian championship and performances in the UEFA Youth League.
Ihor Kostiuk (right; photo: fcdynamo.com)
- We gathered on June 24, after coming back from vacation, and have been training for the third week now according to the planned schedule. During this time, we have already played one friendly match. We are working in a two-day mode, now we have a lot of workload. Of course, the heat makes it difficult for the boys, but they endure it, we motivate them that a difficult season is ahead, a performance in the UEFA Youth League. So everyone is understanding and has a great desire to work.
- Does the heat have a strong impact on physical condition?
- Of course, it does. But we must pay tribute to the boys, they are doing everything we have planned. The main thing is that there is excitement, a spark in their eyes.
- I am interested in the personnel issue - who left the team, who joined?
- There are a few players who left us, and there are also guys who returned from the loan. They have now had their chance and are working with us. There are several players who joined our team from the Academy. Now everything is in test mode, we are working, seeing who will be able to compete and help us.
- Tomorrow is the team's control match. Will everyone who is available get playing time?
- Yes, we will plan an equal workload for the players. The main goal of the upcoming game is to see in what condition and to what extent the newcomers who are on trial can help and strengthen us.
- Are there any more sparring matches planned for the home stage of preparation?
- Yes, we are planning another sparring session, after which we are going to an international tournament in the Czech Republic. Before the start of the season, it will be useful for us to play international matches to gain experience before playing in the UEFA Youth League.
