The Lokomotiv Kuban forward told us how he spent the summer, how he feels in the Russian national team and how the MELBET training camp of the Krasnodar team is going.
- How does it feel to be back in a team that has been changed so much this summer?
- It's great, actually. Lots of new guys, both Russian and foreign. We're getting to know everyone little by little. After the national team, there was time to rest a bit, to recuperate. So now I'm jumping into the training process with new vigor.
- Did you know any of the new Lokomotiv players before?
- I've met many of them on the court, but I can't say that we are acquainted.
- What is the main focus of the training at the moment?
- We are laying the physical basis. We all need to be in the same condition – the guys who have been training from the very beginning, and us, who arrived later. But I think it won’t be difficult – a few more training sessions and everything will be okay. I think everyone will fit in easily, and we will enter the season as ready as possible.
- You had a very intense summer. Did you have enough time to rest?
- Oh yes, the summer was very intense. When the season ended, I had five days off, then we trained individually for two weeks – everyone did their job, improved some personal things. After that, preparing for my wedding started – that was also not an easy task. After the wedding itself, my wife and I had a little rest in Greece – and then I went straight to the Russian national team. It feels like the summer flew by, but I feel well rested and fully prepared for the season.
- You had two great matches in the national team: 13+7 against Iran, 22+6 against Egypt. What helped you make such numbers?
- I just managed to play my way. Plus the trust of the coach, the dedication of the whole team, the movement of the ball. Everything joined together, and that's why I think I played so good.
- Do you like playing for the national team?
- For sure! It's a privilege. I'm always proud to go to the national team, to play in the colors of my country, so in such moments I'm happy.
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