Guilherme: We couldn't afford losing points
Lokomotiv goalkeeper Marinato Guilherme joined #OurCherkizovoLIVE show to comment on the game against Ufa (2:0) of Gameweek 20 of the ROSGOSSTRAKH Russian championship, and told about his emotions from the call-up to the Russia national team.
- First of all, I congratulate you on the victory. Second, it feels really nice to get a T-shirt of the Russia national team and make it to the history of the club as one of the players with most appearances. I've been with Lokomotiv for a very long time, it is my family and 171 appearances that I have made is a great achievement.
- It seemed that Lokomotiv played fast today, the team's play was well organized and the opponents didn't really disturb you...
- Yes, we played well. We had to win no matter what. It was a home game and it's been a while since we recorded our last win. Our closest opponents won their duels and we couldn't afford losing points. But I tell you what - the moment I made it to the field I felt we're going to make it. I'm glad we have won.
- Ufa didn't create any threat to us except for that goal.
- Yes, it would have been annoying if they would have scored off their first attempt. It's good that the ref saw the player offside. After we had scored we started defending our lead but it was a psychological thing. We were afraid to make a mistake and let the victory slip away.
- The Lokomotiv fans are excited about your call-up to the Russia national team: are you worried and what number do you want to take?
- I don't have the right words to describe my emotions when I learned about the call-up. Me and my family were very happy. I had been looking forward to that moment. It took me so much time to get the Russian citizenship but when I had my Russian passport I could smell the opportunity to play for the national team. As for the playing number, I think it's up to the coaches to decide, not me.
- But do you have any preferences?
- I prefer #1, of course (laughs). But actually I'll be glad about any number. It's just important to be in the squad.
- It's weird the Brazil team's coaches didn't notice you and didn't give you a chance...
- The problem is that I have played too few games in Brazil, I made only 28 appearances. Besides, I was young, just 21 years old. When I came here I didn't have much playing time at first, and I had few chances to play internationally. I have still never played in the Champions League. But it's not important. I have said it many times that 90% of my career I spent here. And I will be much happier to wear a Russian jersey than a Brazilian one. I know how many people love me here and I want to play for them.
