Denis Zakharov: "We are waiting for the start of the season and hope to achieve all our goals"

Denis Zakharov was one of the first players in the blue-whites squad to complete the medical examination and is already fully prepared for the team's initial training sessions after the break. The guard shared his feelings ahead of the season in which Zenit celebrates its tenth anniversary.

— A traditional question. How did you spend the summer? How was your vacation?

— As usual. We relaxed a bit and took a breather after the season. We rested and trained. Everything was as usual, nothing new.

— Were you able to train on an individual schedule?

— Yes, we kept in touch with our strength and conditioning coach, Jure Drakslar, throughout the summer and actually prepared the body for the season.

— Preparation for the new season is ahead. What mood do you approach training with?

— We are excited, waiting for the start of the season, and hope to fulfil all the set goals.

— You’ve been with Zenit for four years, and there are newcomers on the team. How will you help the guys adapt?

— The guys are experienced. We will do everything possible on our part; if help is needed, we will answer all questions. I am sure the foreign players who have been in the club for a long time will also help the newcomers adapt.

— The club is about to turn 10 years old. This year, Zenit will attract increased attention. In this regard, what is your attitude, is there additional motivation or a specific desire?

— In such a big club, the attitude is always the same — to win. Therefore, we will strive to reach our goal, our trophies, do our best, progress, and do everything for victory.

— Poythress has returned to the team, and Zenit has also added Andrey Vorontsevich. Have you had the chance to talk to your new teammates, say something to them?

— I saw Andrey now at the medical examination, and we exchanged a few words about summer, family, and so on. I haven’t seen Alex yet. The guys are experienced; they know how to win, how to play. I think there won’t be any problems.

— One of the brightest memories of the past season is your dunk in the game against CSKA on May 7. Guerschon Yabusele did something similar in the Olympic Games final, overpowering LeBron James. Could you compare these two episodes? Which one did you like more?

— I’m biased here, so let the fans and experts evaluate. The main thing is that we won that game. France didn’t manage to do that, so I guess that’s a small plus in my favor.