The Yellow Canaries talisman considers Saturday’s derby as colossal not just for Fenerbahce and Besiktas but for each of Turkcell Super Lig’s current top four teams.  The Brazilian playmaker voiced his disappointment that neither Deivid nor Bobo will feature as he perceives both to be big game players.

The 30 year old then commented on his team’s current league position.  “We have been challenging for top spot since the season began and have finally got there.  To remain leaders is tougher than to chase it as there is more pressure.  If we can beat Besiktas our points difference will increase to 5, but if we lose then they will leapfrog us.  If it ends in a draw then we will maintain our 2 point advantage over them but will then need to keep an eye on Galatasaray’s and Sivasspor’s results.”

Alex believes the increase in title contenders this season indicates the growing quality of the league.  “To be competing with more than one team for the title is a positive development.  Usually there would be two teams that have broken away from the pack but this season 4 teams have managed to keep up with the pace.  2 years ago Sivasspor were playing 2nd division football now they are competing with the ‘Big 3’ for the title.  There is also Kayserispor who if they did not suffer a few bad results would have been up there too.  In short, the quality is improving with every passing year.”

Who are we to argue...