Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic spoke about the challenge his team faces ahead of Monday’s match against Parma. The Bianconeri find themselves in 5th place, with two wins and one draw so far this season, a surprising run of form, considering their narrow escape from relegation last season. Speaking ahead of the match, Runjaic addressed the international break and the style of football that he wants to play in Udine:
“The break did us a lot of good, as I think it did for all teams. Some players were away on international duty, and I’m happy to have them back. For example, Kristensen did very well with his national team. I think he’s ready, but I don’t know if he’ll play – there’s still time until Monday.”
“For me, the next game is always the most difficult. Parma is a good example of this. They’re a great team that has grown over the years, with players who have been together for a long time. They have a well-oiled system and the coach has been there for a long time. They’re very cohesive in their play. We have an idea of how to prepare for the game, we have a plan. We want to play attractive football and do everything possible to win.”
“The break was also useful to try out the new players. They’re three young talents, and it was an opportunity to get to know them and integrate them into the group. I’m happy with these new players; they’ve shown they can play. Now we need to understand how to proceed to get to know each other better.”
“We trained very intensely for three days, and I think there’s an opportunity to use Friday differently. Some trained individually in the gym, we watched video material for the next game. We still prepared. It’s necessary to regenerate physically and mentally.”
“It’s nice to have all players available. We have more possibilities to express our game. I don’t know yet who will play. Karlsson is a central figure, he has always played well. Then you have to see what each individual game requires from the opponent to understand what to put on the field.”
“They train at their best and do their best. We have more options, it’s never easy to make the right decision. You see from time to time based on the level of concentration, then I make my decisions. It’s nice to have this variety and to be able to choose.”
