Andrey Vorontsevich: "It is important to approach the process properly from day one"

Zenit forward Andrey Vorontsevich gave an extensive interview about the start of the first team’s preseason preparations.

— Andrey, how was your summer?

— The summer was good and went by quickly. We barely had time to finish the season before the new training camp started. So, everything is great.

— The preseason camp under Duško Ivanović has begun. Do you feel ready?

— Well, how can you be ready for that? You just have to start the process of working together. Naturally, everyone has been training and preparing, and everyone understands that any training camp after a break is always challenging. I’m sure that all our players are true professionals and have kept themselves in good shape. As for me, I can say that I trained in Mytishchi, at the Olimp sports school. So, a little bit of advertising there. Thank you to them for providing us with such a great gym.

— What do you think about working with such an experienced coach?

— I have played against teams coached by Ivanović many times — both when he was at Baskonia and when he was at Khimki. Of course, I have never worked with him before. I know that he is a true professional, has won a lot, and is demanding. From what I have heard from players who have worked with him, everyone has spoken highly of him. He is a great professional and was a player himself, so he understands what needs to be done and how. We are looking forward to having all the players join us. Our official games are still some way off, and we need to understand that from day one, we have to gradually get into the process and approach it properly. I have no doubt that everything will be organised that way.

— How do you feel about the fact that Zenit’s previous training camps were held in Turkey, in a hot climate, while this time you are heading to Serbia, where you will play friendly games?

— It is hot here in Saint Petersburg as well, and it will be even hotter in Serbia. In principle, it doesn’t really matter where the training camp is held. The main thing is that everyone stays healthy and safe. Everything else depends on the place... As they say, it is not the place that makes the person, but the person who makes the place.

— Have you missed the fans?

— Very much, of course. We miss their support and their energy. Naturally, when you are in the middle of the season and constantly in contact with the fans, when you energise them and they energise you, it creates an incredible exchange of energy that is truly priceless. I wish all our fans a great rest, plenty of energy, and hope that in the new season they will support us with the same passion and enthusiasm as always.

I also invite everyone to the Kondrashin and Belov Cup. A new season, a new roster, a new coach. In short, there is a lot that is new, and it will be interesting and exciting. I’m sure that this season we will see more team chemistry and, of course, lots and lots of spectacular moments.

So come and support us — we have missed you. I hope you have missed us, too. See you soon!