Peter Olayinka is looking forward to great things with Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League.
In this interview, he speaks about his targets, his new position at centre-forward and how he has adapted at the club.
The Full Interview:
How did it feel playing in front of the fans at a packed Maracana?
The feeling after the matches against Fiorentina and Vojvodina was incredible. Playing in front of the Red Star fans is great, I enjoyed myself on the pitch. Everything was as it should be.
Maracana is a wonderful stadium, very big. I love loud stadiums, it feels great when the fans are there. It is unusual when they are not with us and we want as many of them as possible in the next matches.
Although I recently came to the club, I heard that with the Premium season ticket, fans can watch all the matches at the Maracana, even in the Champions League. I talked with my teammates in the locker room and we all agreed that it was phenomenal against Fiorentina, and we want the stadium to be always filled to the last seat.
What are the team’s targets in the group stage f the UEFA Champions League?
When it comes to the Champions League, I have no choice of teams during the draw. The best club competition in Europe is a big stage. We have to prepare for the most difficult challenges. Our expectations are to open the group well, to show ourselves in a positive light and advance to the next stage.
In football, you never know much going forward, maybe I’ll score against Inter Milan again. I dream of it in front of a full Maracana.
You scored four goals in pre-season and you have jelled very well with Jean-Philippe Crassot.
I feel good in the centre-forward position. I like to play in any position in attack.
I am focused on the goal and communication with teammates and coaches. They are the ones who make me feel better every day. I hope to continue the good games.
I feel great with Kraso on the field. We quickly became friends, and along the way we are also roommates. We talk a lot and try to understand each other better on the field. Also, we follow the instructions of the professional staff. It is very easy to play in tandem with Kraso.
How has it been like working with head coach Barak Bahar?
It’s great to work with coach Barak Bahar. It is very nice to talk to him, because he gives you confidence and motivates you to the limit. He is the kind of coach I like to work with.
An incredible pre-season with great matches are behind us. We are trying to adapt, to grow and to be ready for this season and to be ready for the Champions League.
