Dynamo head coach Slaviša Jokanović answered journalists' questions after his first official match as club's manager against Rostov (1:1).
— This was a tough match for both teams. Rostov started the game well, moved the ball better and used through-balls. But we managed to score and created quite a lot of chances. In the second half we did well before conceding the goal. By the end the visitors were closer to grab a victory. In general, I think that the result is fair.
— What did you like most about today's play?
— We had quick attacks, created a lot of chances. In some episodes we played very intensely and aggressively. I think we will play even better in the future. I can't be dissatisfied today, because we faced a well-balanced team.
— Did you expect such a play from Rostov, which took ninth place last season?
— I am not surprised by the level of the championship. It is not so easy to play in the RPL. I managed to watch Rostov matches against Krasnodar at training camps, so I was not surprised at all. This is my first time of work in Russia, but I clearly understand the level of football. Here are the players who are physically and technically savvy.
— At the beginning of the match, the visitors looked better, as well as in the second half. Why did it happen?
— I agree that they looked better at the beginning of the match, but in the second half we played very well until the conceded goal. Yes, then they were closer to victory, but this is football. We faced a very good opponent, which is headed by the coach of the Russian national team. Rostov showed a very good play. We have to give them credit. Today we tied the game, but the match could have ended either with a victory for Rostov or with our victory. I agree that we could have played better, but we've been together for 3.5 weeks only, and this was our first official match. Next week we will try to play better than today.
— Why did you decide to change the team captain and made a choice in favor of Daniil Fomin?
— Anton Shunin was the captain last season, but the team had another coach. Shunin's status does not change. I decided that Daniil was coming to be the leader and captain of the team. He demonstrated his leadership qualities today. It was my decision, and I am responsible for it.
— What can you say about centre-backs? Will there be new faces in this line?
— Sergey Parshivlyuk and Alexander Kutitsky played a good match. This is not their main position, so it was not easy for them. They did not make serious mistakes. I am satisfied with their performance. We lost three important players in this position during the pre-season, so we need to solve this problem. Even mathematically, we need new footballers to get back to the same level.
— It seemed that you were very calm. Do you always behave like that during the match?
— I have been coaching for many years, and I have passed through many wins and defeats. I always try to help my players and give the necessary instructions during the game. If you think I'm unemotional, then that's your perception. My main function is to be close to the team and support it.
— What is the situation with Sebastian Szymanski? Are you counting on him or you are no longer waiting for the Pole?
— He's not working with the team right now. Sebastian is a great player, but I think we won't be able to count on him this season.