[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q, I think Shonan will defend from the front line, what is your countermeasure?
As a defensive element, there are times when we come from the front, but when we are broken through, we tend to lower the block and solidify our defense. Pressing from the front lineis necessary to break through, but first and foremost, it is important to show our own style of soccer and grow as a team rather than focusing on the opponent's strengths. There are also players who have not been able to play in the game, so please look forward to it. I want the players to take advantage of their chances to play and compete for positions. We are having good training sessions and I would like everyone to contribute to improving the team's completion by giving them playing time if possible. However, we have to choose players. I want to use many young players and if possible, give them a chance for the next league game.
Q, Is it true that players who have not played in the game will have a chance to play?
A, the season has just begun and I want to give all players a chance.
Q, What do you think is the reason for the team's three consecutive wins and accumulated points in the league, despite being in a developing stage?
A, It is a very good thing to be able to grow while accumulating points. This season is a season of growth in order to establish a new style of soccer, but we will continue to demand that we play with a focus on winning. To improve the level of completion, it is necessary to repeat trial and error through games. I think that finding improvement points from mistakes and preparing for the next game will lead to growth. If we can accumulate points while focusing on winning, I think it is an ideal process for both the team and individuals. There will be Levain Cup matches during the league season. I want to use young players and players who do not have many opportunities to play, but since there is no league match this week, I will consider a different player selection.
Q, I think coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA has the ability to develop young players, but where do you think the key to their growth lies?
A, training is important and, it is necessary to show your presence by appealing. Then, we will decide whether to use you or not. You must have the mental strength to express yourself. On the other hand, I think it is the responsibility of the coach if a player who can appeal is not given a chance. Young players are the type to be boldly used, and it is common in this world for teams to gradually change generations. I think it is necessary for the coach to use young players for the club's goals.
Q, Long-time player also participated in the match as the World Cup appearance was decided.
A,I think we played a good game and had good plays. Against teams like Australia that are physically superior, it is necessary to have a good performance. The situation will change between the Asian qualifiers and the World Cup finals. Personally, I think it would be great if the Japan national team can continue their current playing style. I would be happy to see many players from Tokyo selected and playing in the finals.
[Player Interview]
＜Hirotaka MITA＞
Q, how was it to look back on the Hiroshima game, where you were able to make an impact after being subbed in during the second half?
The coach told me that I did well in terms of changing the flow. I think it was good that I was able to produce results myself, but there were many things that the team couldn't do, so there are areas for improvement.
Q, Do you need both technical skills and strength to establish a new style?
A, we have just started a new style this season, so it will take time to complete. However, I think there are parts that will work well because we have talented players. The coach also gives us a formation that takes advantage of each player's strengths. We are also told to show our strengths on the pitch, so I think it is necessary for each of us to express our strengths and play with high intensity.
Q, what is your enthusiasm for the Shonan game?
I want to play towards the goal while being involved with the ball in order to bring out the best. Of course, we are committed to the results, but we also want to express our own soccer style. I think it will be an important match as we aim to win as many titles as possible while growing.
Q, I think Mita is a leading presence in the team in the midst of fierce competition within the team.
A, It is absolutely necessary to play for the team as a veteran, but it is a world where you cannot survive if you cannot achieve results individually, so I want to do my best to balance it.
Q, What is the difference between a game where the team's build-up goes well and a game where it doesn't go well?
A, there were many scenes where we lost the ball when we were pressured from the front line. I think we need to improve the accuracy of passing and the quality of positioning support, and have a common understanding among players.
Q: Are there any points of reflection for playing against 3-back and 4-back opponents as a midfielder?
A, we are able to practice against a 3-back opponent. In the Iwata game, we were able to possess the ball but couldn't penetrate into the attacking third, and in the Hiroshima game, we couldn't maintain possession of the ball. As the opponent's system changes, we need to adapt and make changes accordingly.
Q, we have also accumulated points with 3 consecutive wins in the league.
There are parts where I can do the plays I want and parts where I can't. I want to aim for improving our new soccer style and winning, which I think will be interesting for the fans and supporters to watch.
Q, I think your position has changed from the pre-season camp to the start of the season. What kind of appeal did you make?
A, before the opening, I think that the evaluation was linked because I was able to create a rhythm while receiving the ball with an anchor and was able to play with high intensity in defense.
Q, What do you keep in mind during the game?
A, the key is to pass to a forward player easily and simply connect the ball. It is important to have good judgement, so I always keep that in mind.
<Keita YAMASHITA>
Q, I joined Tokyo this season. How do you feel looking back on it from the beginning of the season until now?
A, as a team, I think we are able to make positive attempts towards the new style of football. We have won three consecutive games in the league, so there is no doubt that we are moving in a good direction. However, personally, I feel that I need to produce better results and contribute to the team's strength.
Q, Player Yamashita has started in both of the Levain Cup matches so far. How do you feel about your performance?
A, I am frustrated that I have not yet achieved the result of scoring because I am focused on scoring as a forward. My condition is good, but there are still areas where I am lacking in coordination with my teammates during games. I want to continue playing and training in order to score goals as soon as possible in a good way.
Q, What kind of play is expected from Yamashita in the possession soccer advocated by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA?
A, There are various things that are required, but the most important thing is to score goals. It is always said and I am also aware of it. I am practicing with the intention of scoring goals in any form. I think everyone understands Coach Albert's instructions, whether it's in attack or defense. However, in order to express it in detail, I feel that we need to gain experience as a team.
Q, Please share your enthusiasm for this week's match against Shonan with the fans and supporters.
A, I think we can't advance to the Levain Cup group stage without winning here, so we will all go for 3 points. In order to do that, I want to fulfill my responsibility as a forward and get results. As an individual, I also want to bring more to the team and show my strengths. Thank you for your support!
Official Match Day Program is here!
