Syomin: A draw is a good result in the current circumstances

Lokomotiv’s head coach Yuriy Syomin summarizes the game against Krasnodar (1:1) in Gameweek 16 of the Russian Premier League.

- As we are approaching a break in the championship, the result is good. The game that we had played in the Champions League cost us pretty much effort, we had many injured footballers, some players who had missed a month or more returned. It’s a complex issue. We played well except for an episode when we conceded a goal at the end of the first half due to the loss of concentration. It was an equal game. Maybe, Krasnodar had some advantage.

- What’s with Krychowiak, Barinov and Rybus?

- We had some doubts about Rybus. He started to warm up but had to stop due to muscle discomfort. It looks like Krychowiak picked up a serious injury. Barinov had been unable to take part in a single training session because of a hurt ankle.

- Did you lack energy after Juventus, as it was last time against Spartak?

- This time we were in a better condition, both physically and emotionally. Last time we traveled to Italy and spent time on the road.

- But Krasnodar also had an international match and one day later.

- We played against different teams.

- Five games without a victory - is it a crisis?

- We are gaining points, and are standing second. We have won a trophy this season. There is no crisis, only movement forward.

- Were you intending to give playing time to Smolov and Anton Miranchuk?

- It all depended on the situation. It was their first appearance in more than a month, they were both unable to work to the maximum.

- Are you satisfied with Kulikov’s performance as a defensive midfielder?

- In half-time I had some doubts about moving Joao Mario to that position. We had not a single player with necessary skill to play in defensive midfield. Kulikov was good. Probably, it was worth to let him start the game.

- How did you like Fernandes’s performance?

- Krasnodar’s coach was here minutes ago – you should have asked him. I only comment on my own players.