Airton Andrioli says his Adelaide United side is ready to embrace the challenge ahead of their Australia Cup Round of 32 clash against Newcastle Jets on Wednesday night.
The fixture will mark Andrioli’s first competitive match in charge of the senior team following a successful tenure leading the Club’s youth program.
Speaking to media on the eve of the match, Andrioli expressed his excitement for the opportunity and confidence in the squad’s preparation.
Andrioli on his first competitive match as Head Coach…
“We’ve been preparing the team for the last three weeks in pre-season. Training has gone really well, and we’re looking forward to the challenge. It’s a great opportunity and something I don’t take lightly.”
On Adelaide United’s Australia Cup ambitions…
“We want to continue that tradition of doing well in the Cup. These are important matches for us during pre-season, because they give us real, competitive games to play. We’re taking this very seriously and want to go as far as we can.”
On the need for reinforcements…
“There are specific positions we’re looking to strengthen. The coaching staff and the club are always assessing options and possibilities to improve the squad.”
On coaching against former colleague Mark Milligan…
“It’s interesting that we now face each other after working together, but it’s business as usual. We’re both focused on preparing our teams for the season ahead.”
On adapting his youth coaching approach to senior football…
“My philosophy stays the same. I believe in an adaptable team that plays according to the game and the opponent. But at this level, results become much more important, and that’s something we factor into everything.”
On team availability…
“We’ve got a full group ready to go. As strong as we can be in pre-season. We’re ready for tomorrow.”
On Craig Goodwin’s return from injury…
“Craig’s started some on-field work and he’s feeling confident. He’s progressing well and we’re not rushing anything. Hopefully, we’ll see him involved in the Cup if we go deep.”
On goals for the upcoming A-League season…
“We’re focused on the day-to-day. If we build a strong environment and a winning mentality at training, we give ourselves the best chance to compete and win games.”
On promotion of youth players to the first team…
“The three young boys (Sotiri, Joey, Vinko) we’ve signed have been doing really well. It was a no-brainer. They’re progressing and training with the squad, and we’re excited to see how they continue to grow.”
On replacing experience with youth in defence…
“We’ve got some really exciting young defenders. Yes, they lack experience, but they have potential. If we can add some experience, we will – but we really back these young players.”
