First training in Spain: Lucescu demands reliability

On the morning of January 25, Shakhtar Donetsk had the first training of their Spanish camp, which will end on February 4.

From now on, the team uses the UCL Wembley Final 2013 official footballs. The Pitmen studied the ball design with interest, then, they enthusiastically used the “star-spangled object” in training.

Before the training, Mircea Lucescu addressed the team with a short speech. First, he noted that the first camp had been successful and that he was pleased with the players’ attitude to work and the two won cups. "Every victory adds enthusiasm", said Lucescu. However the team still has work to do. Thus, Mister paid special attention to the defenders, demanding reliable performance from the team and primarily from the defence line. The head coach paid special attention to the recent transfer news - Dentinho’s move to Besiktas. Mircea Lucescu emphasized that the Brazilian striker should benefit from his spell in Turkey because he needs to play more.

The main point of the camp remains the same: everyone should have some game practice. Just in a few hours the Pitmen take on Goteborg to kick off in Copa del Sol. "We are here to win it," pointed out Lucescu. "We must remain the respectable team. But currently, the main task of Shakhtar is to do a great job in Spain to prepare for official games, and, above all, for the home encounter with Borussia. Currently, the main task is to do a great job in Spain, prepare for the official games and, above all, for the home encounter with Borussia."

Besides, the Orange-Blacks have another friendly scheduled for 16:30 EET on Saturday, January 26. The name of the opponents will be announced shortly, you can follow the game developments through the online text commentary on our website.

In the second half of the day, the team will be split into two groups. One will do fitness, and the other one will prepare for the Copa del Sol game. All the players train in the main group, except Tomas Hubschman, who remained in Donetsk. The Czech midfielder has viral infection, so he will join the team later.

FC Shakhtar
Press Office