Oleksandr Pikhalyonok: «We’ve been in this mode for a long time... We’ve gotten used to it a bit»

The midfielder of «Dynamo» answered questions from media representatives during a press conference on the eve of the Conference League match against «Zrinski» at «Arena Lublin».

Oleksandr Pikhalyonok (photo: fcdynamo.com)

Oleksandr, last week the team played two challenging and important matches against «Shakhtar». Have you been able to fully refocus on the European competition game?

— Indeed, we played two very tough matches against «Shakhtar». We won in the Cup but lost in the championship. Unfortunately, the referee did not award a clear penalty, but that’s football...

Today, we analyzed the opponent during a theoretical session. I can say they’re a good, competitive team. Tomorrow we will face a very interesting confrontation.

Marino Pusic made a comment today on the eve of «Dynamo»'s game, saying the following: «they do not take European matches too seriously, as their only goal is the internal championship and the Ukrainian Cup». How would you comment on these words?

— This is not true. When you wear the «Dynamo» (Kyiv) jersey, every match is a big responsibility for everyone. We prepare for each match only with the aim of achieving a positive result.

Recently, many young fans have been asking you for jerseys after matches. How do you feel about this, does it inspire you or, on the contrary, does it bother you?

— Personally, I take it absolutely normally, I was the same when I was little — I also asked for jerseys. I can give one to some, unfortunately not to others. We get one jersey, some are lucky, some are not.

After tough matches against «Shakhtar» you faced a move to Poland. Have you managed to recover? And are you ready to give your all tomorrow?

— Listen, we’ve been in this mode for a long time... We’ve gotten used to it a bit. Of course, these relocations aren’t as easy as some might think. But we’re set on achieving a positive result tomorrow and will try to do everything to make that happen.