Slavisa Jokanovic: We can reach new level in our play

— We always play to win, so we can't be completely satisfied with the final score. On the other hand, we faced a very good team which followed their style and moved the ball very quickly. Probably, CSKA created more chances, while by the end of the second half we also had opportunities to score and grab the match. Unfortunately, we conceded again after the set-piece. The team lacked composure somewhere and made quite a lot of unforced mistakes. We have to keep a positive mood, work hard in training and improve our play.

— What is the reason for the team’s four-game winless streak? How to break this deadlock?

— We need patience and hard work in training. Yes, we are criticized a lot. People are waiting for development, but you can't compare this team with the last season one. We lost a lot of key players. There are many young footballers in the squad, and newcomers who have recently joined the club need time to adapt. We have to stay calm and enjoy the game. It's all part of football. If we continue to do our job, the victories will definitely come.

— Do you have chemistry and mutual understanding with the players? Are they ready to fight for you?

— In my entire playing and coaching career, I have never had the feeling that football players were not ready to fight for a coach once. And now I don't have that feeling. First of all, players have to fight for themselves and for their teammates. And my task is to lead them and inspire them to show their best play.

— During this week you had a meeting with the management, where club’s direction expressed support for you. How important is such trust?

— This was not our first meeting, and, of course, it is very important. The management is constantly interested in what is happening in the team. It is easier for any coach to work in comfortable conditions when you are fully focused on work. I remain calm and fully motivated to keep working. I know that I am heading a big club with a rich history and I am ready for such a challenge. I stay optimistic and I am sure that we can reach a new level in our play.

— Mathias Normann was injured during the first half. Is he a big loss for the team?

— Injuries are part of football. Mathias injured his shoulder, and we can’t say yet how serious it is. In the second half, Aleksandr Kutitsky took the field and also played well.