Coach Zoran Zekic Says Every Player to Fully Deliver
The first gathering before pre-season preparation saw our players in Gradski Vrt. The first session will be held on Monday and Zoran Zekic acquainted them with the program:
“We didn’t want to waste time, but we wanted to tell my players right then what awaits, what kinds of obligations they have and what we will keep stressing. By analyzing last season, it was easy to spot that we received many goals in the latter part of the game. That means that we ought to up the ante in terms of concentration during drills. We analyzed every detail and we will go about it day by day.”
Changes in the Game Structure
Zekic told the press that he wants to change the way and style Osijek plays:
„Yes, I decided that and I want to realize it. I primarily want to be more aggressive. Additionally, additional strength must be found within our existing roster, especially because we showed up good towards the end of the previous season. I also hope for, naturally, better results!”
Enthusiasm Expected just as Last Year
These preparations should be easier done compared to last year’s, where no rest was to be found by our boys.
“Back then, we had little time, but we managed to pull off a great job. The players were enthusiastic and in the mood for work from day one and I expect them to be just like that in the coming preparations. Most of it depends on the players, their determination and I know they will bring their A game.”
Focus on the Existing Roster
The announced changes in terms of playstyle will be dependent on the roster, which will be assembled by NK Osijek HQ in the new season.
“Since day 1, my task has been to place the right players into the right roles. I can’t waste time on thinking who will come and who will leave and when. I can’t influence these fluctuations. What I can focus on, however, is to give 100% with my helpers and the players.” Zekic emphasized.
No one Can Be Waited On for Too Long
Roster diversity and breadth is important.
“I don’t mean to beg anyone to come, but instead want to work with players who will be at my disposal at the right time. For starters, we called 7 players from Osijek II and sent some individuals on loan. Younger players must show motivation and will to prove themselves by fighting for their spots and not just fill up quotas. I think that some of them aren’t that young anymore. Now is their time to show up and deliver. Similarly, this isn’t the NK Osijek anymore where you get to play 5-6 matches consecutively, only for the coach to tell you if you delivered. I don’t have time to wait on anyone any longer.” Zekic cautioned.
28 Players Called
28 players answered the call, with 2 new faces picking up: Kamenar and Radeljic. Along with them, the first to assemble were: Malenica, Kukić, Barišić, Škorić, Šimunec, Grgić, Barać, Šorša, Šutalo, Talys, Lončar, Mudražija, Pušić, Mioč, Pilj, Žaper, Hajradinović, Bočkaj, Pervan, Llanos, Špoljarić, Boban, Štrkalj, Grezda, Ejupi & Marić. Lopa was to join them later on, while Santini excused himself due to private reasons.
