Interview
CAPTAIN SPEAKS ABOUT MILAN
8/6/2005 1:21:00 PM
Paolo Maldini was present at the Saturday press conference and spoke about the current situation at Milan. Here is what the captain had to say:
What counts more at this stage of the season, the cohesion of the squad or the fitness build-up?
Fitness, but also tactical training plays a very important role, then naturally for the new arrivals this is a period for them to adapt to a different environment, I would say it’s a learning process for everyone.
There has been a few shots fired from outside about the age of some of the players in the squad ...
We are fortunate that results of our work are judged by what happens on the pitch. That’s where it counts if we are still good enough or should retire, we know that the older you get the more you have to work to prove that we are in shape.
Do you like that Milan have the capacity to change formation depending on the game?
It’s an advantage to know that we can change tactics, we must be open to them and we know that has helped build our successes.
How will you start compared to Inter and Juventus?
I think we will start on an equal footing, Juventus have strengthened their squad as have Inter, but we have been no less active, then of course, there is the motivation and the real desire to win. I think if you look at the overall balance, Juventus and Milan are perhaps slightly ahead.
Between Lugano and the Berlusconi Trophy, will you manage to make an appearance?
I hope so, the knee doesn’t feel too bad, I have been following a particular training programme, but I hope at least to play some part.