The head coach of the U-16 youth national team of Ukraine, Oleksandr Sytnyk, shared his thoughts on the upcoming gathering of the team and spoke about expectations from the UEFA Development Tournament matches.
Oleksandr Sytnyk— Mr. Oleksandr, you will be working with the national team for the first time U-16. How did you get acquainted with your charges?
— Mostly through video, as there was simply no time for other familiarization. These are not UEFA and FIFA dates, so many boys were not released by their clubs, and a few other candidates suffered injuries. This gathering will be a selection for us. However, of course, I want to already build a core, as we are expecting the first qualifying round of the European Championship in the fall.
But, considering all these points, there is an opportunity to see more candidates for the national team in action. It is better than observing their play in clubs.
— Is at least one gathering planned for the team before the qualification?
— Yes. It will take place in September. Then our coaching staff will have the opportunity to call up basically everyone they want, as these will already be UEFA and FIFA dates. I hope that at that stage of preparation, we will determine the team composition for official matches by about 90%.
— How much do you know about the opponents you will play against in the UEFA Development Tournament?
— There is information about the teams of Finland and Hungary. But regarding the national team of Greece, our first opponent, there is practically no information. Perhaps this team has not gathered yet, or perhaps they have not posted information anywhere.
— What goals will you set for yourself in this competition?
— First of all, we are defending the colors of our country, so we will try to perform as best as possible. The second task, which is no less important, is to see the boys in action, get to know them better, learn about their potential, and psychological components, so as to be fully prepared and understand who to move forward with. All of this is preparation for official matches.
