Sasa Ilic: "Giving preference to academy graduates is an order from the management."

After the match of the XXIII round of the Misli Premier League "Karvan-Yevlakh" – "Sumgayit" (1:1), the head coach of the visiting team, Sasa Ilic, answered journalists' questions. Sport24.az reports that the expert first shared his thoughts on the meeting.

– We tried to give the academy graduates a chance. We will continue this way from now on.

– What is the reason for your decision?

– It is an order from the management to give preference to academy graduates. We made enough mistakes, the game was of poor quality. We also failed to take advantage of the penalty.

– This team cannot even cope with the outsiders. What do you expect from the upcoming games?

– We'll see.

– You have changed the strategy. Does this coincide with your personal claim?

– I respect the decision.

– There has been a decline in the team's games recently. There is an allegation that you will leave the club in the summer?

– There is still time until the end of the season. Whatever decision is made, it will be accepted. My contract is until the end of the season.

– What do you think about the prospects of the "Sumgayit" academy?

– We have a strong academy. It takes time for results. I understand the decision, our chances of qualifying for the European Cups have decreased. That's why strategic paths have been separated.

– At the beginning of the season, a decision was made to give bonuses based on the playing minutes of local, young players. Does this factor play a role in this strategy issue?

– I've heard about it. The main reason for changing the strategy is the decrease in the chances of qualifying for the European Cups.

– In such a situation of the team, do you feel the support of the management, or is there discontent?

– We are working for the team. We started the beginning of the season well. But during the winter break, I had certain requirements. They didn't work out either.

– What is the explanation for different players taking penalties?

– This is the players' own decision. I didn't interfere.

– Will you watch tonight's "Besiktas" – "Galatasaray" game?

– Of course, I will watch it. I played in "Galatasaray" for two seasons. I am a fan of them.