- Ilya, the Russian team just drove a tank through the two weakest teams in the group.
- It's just that we are attuning to every meeting. And it doesn’t matter which opponent confronts us.
- Today you were in the role of acting out. How are you feeling? Did your hands shake?
- Nothing has changed. Both played and continued. This happened at the very beginning of the match. There was a lot of time to fix the mistake. Everyone kept calm. No one twitched. This is probably why they ended up cool.
- The training games at this championship have ended. What can be said about our team? What are her strengths?
- First of all, our trump card is an attack. The guys with names, everyone is trying to prove themselves.
- Only in the majority no one except the Kazan link can play.
- What do you mean, can not? You give a discount on the fact that we play together for a long time, and the rest just do not have enough time to play properly. It’s good that we had these two matches for playing different options. Further it will be easier.
- What, tomorrow will be easier? How much time will it take for the guys to understand each other?
- I think that in the game with Finland it will already be easier. In general, I would not focus on the actions of specific players. We have a team. You can’t say that someone goes, but someone doesn’t.
“Are you saying that you intend to leave for Atlanta next year?”
“I don't know who says that.” I have not thought about this topic yet.
“But the Americans already know everything about you.” And really waiting in the club.
“I heard, but there was no concrete conversation.” Now I have in the foreground the Russian team. The tournament will end - we'll see.
- This, of course, is the problem of young players who begin to play on their contract, and not on the team. You definitely won’t think about a possible deal with the Thrashers? That if you prove yourself, you will be offered the best conditions?
- No no. First, the championship, and then thoughts about whether to leave somewhere. Honestly, I don’t feel like thinking about it right now. But in general, anything is possible.
- Can you say something about our third opponent in this tournament?
- I can’t say anything concrete about Finland. Strong team. Fast hockey players. It will be interesting hockey, and we will try to win.
- Are you interested in playing against Denmark, Ukraine?
- Interesting. It is necessary to give all the best against any opponent.
- Make a prediction for the match Denmark - Ukraine?
- No, I will not.
“But who did you like better?”
- It's not about who I liked more. I will cheer for the Ukrainians. And I wish them victory in this important meeting.
Alexey Shevchenko