Petkovic before Girondins – Lyon: “You have to be ready to sacrifice yourself”
The Girondins coach, 18th in the standings, calls on his players to be “more compact and more united” to stem the negative spiral against OL on Sunday (8:45 pm). He also mentioned his personal case
Your team is 18th and remains on two defeats against Brest (1-2) and Strasbourg (5-2). Comment are you going?
Always better (smile). I was unhappy after the match (in Strasbourg on Wednesday) but I also need to set an example, be calm and stay positive. I keep in mind that with two victories in a row, we can always move up the standings. You have to count on it. We must be more compact, united, believe in our strengths. With all this, we will be able to avoid the individual mistakes that have worn us many times. I am the first responsible, it is up to me to help the players.
Should your team first think about not scoring goals?
We have a negative moment that has lasted for a few games. We were able to score goals (Editor’s note: sixth attack in L1), we have a lot of chances. We have to work on not letting go. The foot is always played in both directions. When you know how to defend well, you can attack well. In modern football, all players, even 9s and 10s can play defending. You have to be ready to sacrifice yourself and give yourself to the maximum. It is a starting point.
Did you try to change your speech this week?
I have spoken, but it is also important to feel the right moment. This week, we had a lot of electroshock, a little harsh therapy (smile). I expect a change of the team tomorrow. It concerns everyone, the staff, the players, the environment. People who bring negativity are not welcome.
What is your share of responsibility in the current bad times?
I knew it was going to be a rebuild, a process that takes time, even years. But we are in a situation where we must do everything to take points. Maybe I ask too much at first, that I wanted to get things done too quickly. Sometimes you have to know how to take a step back in order to move forward. I could also have been too nice. We have to be more demanding. I am with myself, I must be with others.
Have you discussed your personal case with sporting director Admar Lopes and president Gérard Lopez?
I am still in contact with them. I saw the president recently, we talked about several things. The three of us, with Florian (Fieschi, the press officer), see each other very often. I see them more than my wife (laughs).
Do you feel like you are playing your future in this match against Lyon?
Not for me.
How do you see this opponent?
It’s a bit the same choice as us. They have some difficulties, at a higher level of course since they hoped to be in the top three. They are a team of great value, which plays well, compact, which can create possibilities (of goal). They have a good trainer (Peter Bosz).