I’d like to ask you about Senne Lammens, who has made a significant impact since joining the football club. Were you surprised by his influence after just two games?
“A little, yes. Given the current situation at our club and the speculation surrounding our goalkeepers, it’s impressive how he has handled the pressure. He’s not a rookie, but he’s still relatively young. His composure and defensive skills have been notable. In today’s game, especially with teams like Liverpool who often adopt a direct style, being proficient with both feet is crucial. I expected him to be a talented player, so while I’m pleasantly surprised, it’s more about how well he’s managed thus far.”
You mentioned Bruno Fernandes as someone who strives to elevate the standards within the team. Do you have other vocal players? Do you believe your team communicates effectively during challenging situations?
“Definitely, I think Harry Maguire stands out in this regard. Different players have unique styles of communication. Diogo Dalot also makes an effort, while Luke Shaw communicates through his focused play. Harry has that vocal presence, and although you might not notice Nous [Mazraoui] as much, his influence is felt. Licha [Martinez] is crucial as well; he leads vocally. The dynamic can vary based on the moment, and as we continue to win games, I believe everyone will feel more confident to take on a vocal role within the team.”
How frustrating would it be if the team’s attitude isn’t where it should be tomorrow?
“We’ll have to wait and see how the game unfolds. Reflecting on our victories this year, attitude has played a significant role. It’s not that my players lack desire to win or put in the effort; sometimes, it can be challenging. We must remind ourselves to stick to the basics. If we’re able to do this, we’ll be closer to winning more matches. That said, looking at Brighton’s performance, teams that press high can struggle against them—and they’ve secured wins. We need to be prepared not only for the top teams like Chelsea or Liverpool but also for strong opponents like Brighton. Staying focused and smart in our approach is essential.”
