Aris is putting its loss to AEK behind it and turning its attention to the big Thessaloniki derby against PAOK at Toumba.
Michalis Grigoriou emphasized the need for greater focus and avoiding defensive lapses, stressing that his team will need to give 100% to come away with a positive result from the “Double-Headed Eagle’s” home ground.
He also addressed the situation regarding Laurent Moron and the need for him to gradually increase his match fitness.
Here is what he said in detail:
On the derby against PAOK: “We’re set to face PAOK in the Thessaloniki derby. All our thoughts and energy since the AEK match have been focused on this specific game. We need to get back to playing well and getting good results. And to do that at Toumba, we’ll have to give 100%.”
On what Aris needs to change compared to the game against AEK: “We can’t let the game slip away like we did in the last 28 minutes against AEK. We need to be more focused and avoid lapses in defense. It’s a match that will be decided by the details. We need to stay focused on every aspect of the game, and when we have the ball, we need to do what we know how to do.
We analyzed the game and identified what we must not do again. No one is more disappointed than the players themselves. They’re the first to be disappointed. I believe they’ve understood their mistakes, and they must not be repeated.”
On what to expect from PAOK: “PAOK, for its own reasons, wants the win. Obviously, since they’re playing at home, they’ll come out pressing hard. We’ll need to stay calm and composed to break through PAOK’s press and, when we have the ball, create the opportunities to score.”
On Laurent Moron: “I spoke about Moron after the Tripoli match. Everyone knows his value and quality. He needs to increase the amount of time he can play at a higher intensity. The first person to be happy about this, besides me, will be the whole team. Moron can give his all, and I don’t need to be the one to point that out.”
*photo source: KYPE
