Luis Aragones was the final guest on FB TV’s “Kamp Gunlugu” (Camp Daily) program.   The show is a daily update of developments from the preseason camp in Austria with interviews with players or members from the technical staff.   

Could you summarise the camp for us?

Preseason camps are important for players and coaching staff alike.  They provide a great opportunity for everyone to gel together and get used to each other.  We played a few practice games and more important than the score was evaluating the attitude of the players and their performance levels.  I was pleased with what I saw.

How prepared is the team for next season?

From a defensive perspective we looked good but I can’t say the same for the attack.  We need to increase variation and be quicker when making decisions.  With more work we will get there.

You have been in charge for a couple of weeks; can we say the defence is the area you feel has improved most?

Like I say, I am happy with the team but think our defensive game is stronger at the moment.  We have gone through a 15 day period of intensive training with 3 matches sandwiched in-between and so far we are heading in the direction.  The challenge we face is how do we improve our game play and take it to the next level.

Could you tell us a bit about your view on preseason friendlies?

Whilst results are unimportant, friendlies do provide the opportunity of analysing how things work on the pitch and help identify where improvements are necessary. 

You are beginning to know the players, is there a need for new transfers?

I will speak with our President and a decision will be made together.  However, we only have Selcuk who can play in front of the defence and may need cover in that position.  We have lost Aurelio in that role and it will be difficult to replace him. 

You have made some changes since arriving, how do you think this has affected the players?

I require all of my players to have the same positive mentality.  For example, thinking together defensively, spreading across the field effectively, and helping each other are vital for a succesful team.  With this mindset it is possible to build a better defensive unit and stronger midfield to support your attack.  I like to do whatever I feel necessary to breed the same thought process and togetherness in my players.   

I can see that you want to speak of the team collectively but I would like to ask you about two players in particular, Burak and Guiza.  Could you give us your view on our new signings?

I know Guiza from the Spain national team but also have a fair idea on the Fenerbahce players from the Champions League, Turkish League and Euro 2008.  Commenting on individuals is not my style but I am delighted with both players’ efforts.  I will refuse from speaking of individual players in future. 

To be continued...