Andrey Martiuk: "After two weeks of rest, I already wanted to get back to work"

Zenit center Andrey Martiuk underwent an in-depth medical examination with the main team and shared his thoughts ahead of the start of the preseason training camp.

— Andrey, it’s great to see you. How was your summer? Did you manage to get some proper rest?

— The summer was great. It was a little too short, of course. I’m also happy to see all our fans again. I missed them, and after two weeks of rest, I already wanted to get back to work.

— The team has completed the in-depth medical examination and testing. Which of your teammates have you already had a chance to see?

— Mostly Georgy, because we did almost all the tests together, both the medical examination and the testing. Other than that, little by little. I met Vlad Emchenko, and I also saw Andrey Vorontsevich a couple of times during the testing. But the first practice is ahead, so I’ll finally see everyone!

— We’re starting the training camp in St. Petersburg and then heading to Belgrade, where we’ll play three friendly games. What are your expectations for the preseason?

— First and foremost, I expect us to put in some good work. I have only positive expectations. When you’ve had a good rest, you really want to work even harder afterward.

— Your teammate at center, Alex Poythress, is returning to the lineup after recovering from his injury. Are you happy that you’ll be playing together again this season?

— Before his injury, I really enjoyed working and training with Alex. Although I’d actually say I didn’t enjoy it — it was tough! (laughs) He’s an experienced player, and at that time he gave me a lot of advice and supported me. He’s a great guy. He recovered from such a serious injury relatively quickly. Alex was already in pretty good shape by May.