At the press-conference, held in the Lobanovskyy Dynamo stadium conference room, FC Dynamo Kyiv president Ihor Surkis has spoken to media about results and achievements of the club, reached in the first half of the current season. The event provided an opportunity for dialogue between football journalists and the club president.
- I would like to point out that the purpose of the meeting was to sum up the team’s performances in the first half on the 2008/2009 season and evaluate the progress we have achieved. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all journalists for their justified criticism and support.
- The winter transfer window will be open soon. What positions must be reinforced?
- We have a “laser” selection. Last summer we invited Betão and Vukojević, as Yuriy Semin wanted right-back and defensive midfield positions to be strengthened. We also had some problems with our goalkeepers in the Ukrainian championship and UEFA Champions League. That was the reason for signing a contract with Stanislav Bogush. I think we have reinforced our squad with good footballers. As for the positions that need strengthening, we would like to find good forward and central defender able to switch to left-back when needed. It is Yuriy Semin's opinion.
Speaking of on-loan players … Diogo Rincón will surely return to Dynamo. We talked with him when he was in Kyiv. Michael is currently on loan at Santos FC and will stay there until summer 2009. As for Kleber and Rodrigo, we have to wait until the end of December.
Following the question, Ihor Surkis expressed his sadness at the death of FC Dnipro player Maksym Pashayev:
- We had to start this press-conference with a minute of silence in memory of Maksym Pashayev, who was tragically killed in a road accident. It’s a huge tragedy for all of us. We’ve lost a really talented member of our football family. I would like to address my deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Maksym’s family and FC Dnipro. If there’s any help needed, our doors are always open. We are always ready to extend a helping hand anytime.
- What can you say about Okoduwa’s future in Dynamo?
- Emmanuel has suffered a serious injury. He was operated two weeks ago and as the doctor says, Okoduwa will be ready to resume full training in a month. If he can stand the competition, he will stay with us. If not – we will have to say goodbye to him.
- Dynamo are rumoured to be interested in the Brazilian defender Léo. Is it truth?
- No, I deny these rumours. I can assure you that we are not interested in any footballer mentioned on the internet.
- Are there any teams that you would prefer to be drawn against in the UEFA Cup?
- The one we can overcome.
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