Veteran footballer Konstantin Lepyokhin shared his thoughts on the latest news regarding the St. Petersburg club 'Zenit' in an exclusive interview with the online publication “Evro-Futbol.Ru”. This was reported by Euro-football.ru.
According to him, yesterday 'Zenit' presented its star new player Jerson. The team's head coach Sergey Semak spoke about the important role this player will play for the club.
Lepyokhin emphasized that it is difficult to say whether Jerson will emerge as a leader or not, as he has not yet played in the new team. However, he speculated that this transfer would be beneficial and that Jerson would help 'Zenit' secure the championship.
In Lepyokhin's opinion, although 'Zenit' is a strong team, reinforcements were necessary, as they did not win last season. He also mentioned Ilya Samoshnikov, whom the 'Spartak' team is looking to acquire.
He has been offered to 'Zenit', and if there is a need to strengthen the defense line, Samoshnikov is considered a strong player on a national level. However, competition in Semak's team is very fierce, so his success cannot be predicted.
In many cases, even good players struggle to find their place in 'Zenit'. Nevertheless, Samoshnikov deserves a chance to prove himself.
Regarding Vendel, Lepyokhin noted that he has not yet joined 'Zenit' and has not signed a contract with 'Botafogo'. Semak is waiting for his arrival, but in Lepyokhin's view, the coach is building the team in such a way that he is not relying on this player.
If there are doubts about the player's motivation, success in the team will be difficult. Each game requires proving one's place.
There is also talk about Aleksandr Sobolev possibly moving to 'Orenburg'. Lepyokhin stated that in this matter, the player himself must make the decision.
Since Sobolev is not playing much at 'Zenit', there is currently no urgent need for him in the team. There are strong players at 'Zenit', but it is important that each of them is ready to win.
Lepyokhin added regarding Sobolev's level: the competition at 'Zenit' is higher than at 'Spartak'. Even if the playing time is consistent, the player's psychology and attitude towards work can change.
Therefore, it is wrong to harshly criticize players. Regarding Nino possibly leaving 'Zenit' for family reasons, Lepyokhin mentioned that this loss is not significant, but it will require time and effort to fill his position.
Nino has participated in all games when he has been healthy. Since there is good competition in this position within the team, it is possible to fill this spot.
It is not advisable to bring in a player from outside in an emergency manner. Interview author Elena Grigoryevskaya.
