The camp has reached its 9th day, and the Okinawa Kunigami camp will conclude tomorrow. The relationships among the players have deepened through the camp, and a sense of unity can be felt from the atmosphere of the practice.
In today's training, we spent a lot of time confirming the quality of passes and the interactivity between players in both offense and defense.
The important build-up training aimed at the goal is one of the styles being developed by Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI, along with the staff and players, during the camp period while making detailed confirmations. Movements such as dropping back towards the goal, breaking behind the opponent's defensive line, and receiving the ball are all being inputted into each player's body and mind on the pitch to ensure overall connectivity.
Of course, good defense leads to good offense, not just attacking. To win the ball in high positions, the defensive players control the forwards with precise coaching. There were many instances of hard work and transitions in both defense and offense, as well as strength in duels, reflecting the foundation that Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI has been demanding since last season.
After practice, we conducted an interview with number 8, Takahiro KO.
Q: The camp has reached its 9th day. As we continue with serious training, how do you perceive the team's impression once again?
As I felt before joining Tokyo, I have the impression that there are indeed many players with high individual abilities. There are many wonderful players, and while it took a little time to get accustomed, there are many players who are easy to communicate with. I am also conscious of communicating both on and off the pitch. I am able to spend fulfilling time.
Q: Were there moments of confusion while facing a different tactic from Albirex Niigata?
Yes, of course there were, but the team and the coach are different, and the style of play expected of me is naturally different as well. I joined Tokyo with confidence in what I have built up until now, but there have been many things that I couldn't adjust to as I hoped. However, I believe that if I can't clarify what is expected of me here in Tokyo, I won't be able to elevate myself to a higher level. I feel joy in being able to play while experimenting every day, and since Tokyo has its own soccer style, I want to grow stronger and improve while feeling the potential for development.
Q: Have you been able to see the team's character by communicating both on and off the pitch?
There are many veteran players and young players, but I felt there were few mid-career players. Since my position is a defensive midfielder, I try to keep an overall perspective.The young players started teasing me around the second day of camp (laughs).
Q: Finally, please tell us your enthusiasm for the opening.
First of all, as a player who joined this season, I want to focus on getting used to the team's style in Tokyo and avoiding injuries. Since we will continue with practice in a game-like format from here, I want to express my individuality while successfully adjusting to the team's tactics. For the team's victory and my own growth, I want to make the remaining time in camp a productive one.
