Despodov: “Thankful for what I live in PAOK – Nobody wants to play in empty stadiums”

Grateful for what he has experienced so far at PAOK, said Mr Kirill Despodovahead of the away match against Asteras Tripoli for the 14th matchday of the Stoiximan Super League.

The Bulgarian midfielder referred to his team’s great European run, the goals he now has in the season, his choice to wear the “black and white” as well as the government’s decision to hold the games behind closed doors.

His statements to Nova in detail:

What this year’s great European achievements mean for him and PAOK: “We worked really hard to be top of the group, we gave everything in all the games to come out on top. It was very difficult but in the end it leaves us extremely happy that we finished in first place. But we are asked to leave all this behind and focus on the championship games”.

If the course in Greece and Europe “forces” PAOK to rethink the objectives of the season: “The goals of a team like PAOK is to claim everything. From the beginning of the year he was clear, to win every game. The European matches were a sample, but we must continue to work hard and be grounded.”

If the course and climate of PAOK justify him even more for his choice to come here:“I didn’t think for 1 second that I made the wrong choice, I was sure from the beginning that I want to come here. It is a club that suits me very well and I will be able to improve and contribute to the team. PAOK is a well-known club in Europe. I feel completely justified for the choice I have made.”

For his appearances so far and further: “Each player needs time, I work a lot in training and games to integrate better into the team. I’m not even at 50-60% of what I have to give to the team. I am trying to understand the coach’s philosophy which is opposite to what I have done in the past. There is huge room for improvement and I believe I will soon reach them. Nevertheless, I am grateful for the reception of the people and the club”.

For the decision to hold the closed games:“Although it is not our job to comment on what happens off the pitch, no footballer in the world wants to play in empty stadiums. Football is for the fans. I would like to keep the positive, that maybe things will get better. We will continue to fight on the field.”

For the game with Asteras in Tripoli: “They are a very solid team, it will be a difficult game, we are in good shape and we will go to fight for the three points because it is an important match”