[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q: Shonan is expected to defend from the front line. What measures are you taking?
As a defensive element, there are times when we come forward, but when we are broken through, we tend to lower the block and solidify the defense. It is necessary to break through the press from the front line, but first and foremost, it is important to show our own style of soccer and grow. There are also members who have not been able to participate in the game, so please look forward to it. I hope the players can take advantage of the opportunity to play and compete for positions. We are having good training, and if possible, I want to give playing time to everyone and contribute to improving the team's completion. However, we have to select players. I would like to use many young players and take the opportunity for the next league match.
Q, is it true that there are opportunities for players who have not played in the game to participate?
A, the season has just begun, so I want to give every player a chance.
Q, what do you think is the reason for the team's three consecutive victories and accumulated points in the league, considering that the team is still in the development stage?
It is very good to be able to accumulate points and grow. This season is a season of growth in order to establish a new style of soccer, but we will continue to play with a focus on winning. To improve the level of completion, it is necessary to repeat trial and error through matches. I think that finding improvement points from mistakes and preparing for the next match will lead to growth. If we can grow while accumulating points and being committed to 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 would like to use young players and players who have not had 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 opportunity for growth lies?
A, training is important and, it is necessary to make an appeal and show existence. Then, we will judge whether to use it. You must have the mental strength to express yourself. On the other hand, I think it is the responsibility of the coach if you cannot be used despite being able to appeal and not being blessed with opportunities. 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 to use young players as a coach for the club's goals.
Q, Long-time player also participated in the World Cup match.
A, I think we had a good game and played well. It is necessary to play a good game against teams that are physically superior like Australia. The situation will change in the Asian qualifiers and the World Cup main tournament. 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 main tournament.
[Player Interview]
Hirotaka MITA
Q, how do you look back on the Hiroshima match, where you were brought on in the second half and also achieved results?
I was told by the coach that I did well in terms of changing the flow. I think it's good that I was able to achieve results myself, but there were many things that the team couldn't do, so I think 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 I think it will take time to complete. However, I think there are parts that will work well because talented players have gathered. The coach also gives us a formation that takes advantage of the players' characteristics. I have also been told to show my own characteristics, so I think each individual needs to express their characteristics on the pitch and play with high intensity.
Q, how are you feeling about the Shonan game?
I want to play while being involved with the ball and heading towards the goal in order to bring out the goodness. Of course, I am committed to the results, and I will express our own soccer style. I think it will be an important match because I want to win as many titles as possible while growing.
Q, I think Mita is a player who leads the team in the midst of intense competition within the team.
It is absolutely necessary to become a veteran and play for the team, but it is also a world where you cannot survive if you cannot achieve results individually, so I want to work hard and balance it.
Q: What is the difference between a game where the team's build-up works well and a game where it doesn't work well?
A, there were many scenes where the ball was lost when pressured from the front line. I think it is necessary to improve the accuracy of passing the ball and the quality of positioning support, and to have a common understanding among the players.
Q: Do you have any points of reflection on playing against opponents with a 3-back and 4-back formation as a midfielder?
We are able to practice against opponents with a 3-back formation. In the Iwata match, we were able to possess the ball but couldn't penetrate the attacking third. In the Hiroshima match, we couldn't maintain possession of the ball. Since the system changes depending on the opponent, I think it's necessary to adapt and make changes accordingly.
Q, the team has 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 think it's interesting for the fans and supporters to see us improve and win with a new style of soccer, so I want to aim for that.
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 it led to positive evaluations because I was able to create rhythm while receiving the ball as an anchor and also play with high intensity in defense.
Q, what do you keep in mind during the game?
A, it is about passing the ball to forward players easily and connecting the ball simply. Judgment is also important, so I always keep that in mind.
＜Keita YAMASHITA player＞
Q: You joined Tokyo this season. How do you feel looking back on it from the beginning to this point?
As a team, I think we are able to make positive attempts towards the new style of football. We have won three consecutive matches in the league, so there is no doubt that we are moving in the right direction. However, personally, I feel that I need to produce better results and contribute to the team's strength.
Q: How do you feel about your performance so far, player Yamashita, who has started and played the full 90 minutes in both Levain Cup matches?
A, because I am focused on scoring as a forward, it is frustrating that I have not yet achieved the result of a goal. My condition is good, but there are still areas where I lack coordination with my teammates in the game. I want to continue playing games and training to be able to score goals as soon as possible in a good way.
Q, what kind of play is Yamashita asked for in Albert's possession soccer?
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 myself. I am practicing with the intention of scoring goals in any way possible. I think everyone understands Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's instructions in both attack and defense. However, I feel that we need to accumulate experience as a team in order to express it in detail.
Q, please tell the fans and supporters about your enthusiasm for the upcoming Shonan match.
A, I think we need to win here in order to advance to the Levain Cup group stage, so we will all go for 3 points. In order to do that, I want to fulfill my responsibility as a forward and produce results. Personally, I also want to contribute more to the team's strength and showcase my abilities. Thank you for your support!
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