2023 CAMP REPORT & INTERVIEW<br />
DAY4 熊田直紀

INTERVIEW2023.1.12

2023 CAMP REPORT & INTERVIEW
DAY4 Naoki KUMATA

The 4th day of the camp started with training under the strong sunshine that is typical of Okinawa.
The morning practice started with a physical conditioning menu, followed by passing work and finishing, and then continued with ball movement, and finally focused on positional games.
In the menu to bring the ball from pass work to finish, we are working on improving the shooting accuracy in front of the goal and being aware of the timing to receive a pass on the side.
In possession games, we played while keeping in mind the importance of maintaining ball circulation and not losing the ball with few touches, while also having the option to expand if the opposite side was open, while connecting at a close distance with tempo.

It seems that the influence of entering the second year of the Albert coaching system has allowed for smooth ball movement in all menus.









The afternoon practice started with warm-up exercises before the red and white scrimmage.
We are testing various player combinations and confirming positions.
All players are able to practice with a good expression.

It's a tough timing during the early stages of the camp, but we will continue to train hard.





On the 4th day of camp, we bring you an interview with rookie player Naoki Kumata, who was promoted from the U-18 team.

Q, how do you feel now that you have become a professional and started training in Tokyo?
A, within myself, I feel that there are still many areas that are not enough to become a starter, both in terms of being effective and in the forward position.

Q, do you always have a confident impression, but do you get nervous during practice or games?
There is a different atmosphere when it comes to stadiums, but I don't feel nervous during practice.

Q, I had scoring ability while enrolled in the academy.
At the academy and top level, the difference in level is not just one or two, and I want to bring my strengths to a level that can be used in J1's top level.

Q, Which particular skill do you want to improve?
A, as a one-top now, it's a big difference from Diego (OLIVEIRA) player to hold the ball, so I want to improve my ball-keeping ability.

Q: Are there any demands from the coach?
I think the most important thing is to score, but I feel like the coach wants me to play boldly.

Q, How do you feel about the style that the coach is looking for, as you have already participated in training since last season and have already made your official debut?
A, I can understand the defense aspect quite well. However, in terms of attack, I need to appeal more to my strengths. I think if I don't do that, I won't receive any crosses from the side. So, I want to bring out more parts where I can stand out in attack.

Q, Are you also aiming for the opening starting lineup?
A, I'm aiming for it.

Q, Who do you get along with in Tokyo? Do you go to talk to older players on your own?
I talk to all players, but I especially talk to Ryoma WATANABE about soccer. 

Q, where do you place your goal for this season?
A, I am aiming for 10 goals this season. Of course, I will aim for it, but my number one goal is to start in the opening game and not only get results, but also personally score one goal and establish myself as a starter.