Davies: "Important to win, especially mentally"

INTERVIEWS In the run-up to the first game on Sunday, coach Simon Davies spoke to the press yesterday. What we especially remember is that Davies is really looking forward to the start of the new season and that we will have to wait until Sunday afternoon to see who will be in the attack.
 


Davies said that Anderlecht have played many matches against very good teams, so he believes they are ready for the first game. "Many players have shown themselves in a positive way," according to Davies. Davies emphasized that the team wants to win the championship, just like every match. Going for second or third place is not a good attitude.

"There are no new serious injuries besides the long-term injured players," said Davies. Davies was not clear about Thelin's readiness. He dismissed the question of whether Thelin can play on Sunday. Davies said that there are some minor injuries and that Gerkens is an option to play in the attack, as he has been surprised by in the preparation. Furthermore, the staff is not too concerned about the position of the striker.

The readiness of some players (including Sandler and Nasri) must be viewed individually. No hasty decisions are made to prepare players, as the competition will take a very long time.

Peter Zulj may possibly play as a defensive midfielder on Sunday, although he played more offensive last season. Davies found Zulj a surprise on the 'six' during the preparation in the new system. Davies has largely decided who will start on Sunday. Because of the large selection, he has a choice of many players and that does not make it easy.

It is also not sure who will wear the captain's band. The staff searches for leaders on the field and they don't necessarily have to wear the captain's band to assert their authority.

Davies knows that a victory on Sunday is very important, also on the mental level. He believes that Purple & White has played a good preparation, although he knows that the team must become even more decisive in the opponent's penalty area and that there must be better defense in their own penalty area. Thanks to the mix of old and new members in the staff, Davies is prepared for the arrival of Ostend, which has also brought in many new players.