Shakhtar Donetsk duo of Fernandinho and Alex Teixeira conducted a group interview with students of the Donbass National Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture in Makiyivka on Friday, with Alex having been elected the club’s Player of the Month for October.
Asked about the midweek 3-2 defeat to Chelsea, which saw the miners concede a last minute goal at Stamford Bridge, both players were insistant that the club will respond strongly.
“The game with Chelsea was very tough, but I am confident we can overcome this defeat,” Fernandinho told the crowd.
“It’s too early for complacency, the Champions League is not easy. We cannot make any conclusions until December 5.”
Asked about his recent comments regarding selection for the Brazil national team, Alex Teixeira added: “Only through good performances with Shakhtar will I get an opportunity with the Seleção.”
While both players commented that they would like to face AC Milan in the next stage of the tournament, they also admitted that they would like to return to play in Brazil at some point in the future.
The duo were, though, keen to stress their high regard for the Ukranian club, who Fernandinho describes as ‘wonderful’. The former Atlético Paranaense midfielder conducted the interview in perfect Russian.
Shakhtar, who hold a 100% record in domestic action this campaign, take on neighbours Metalurh this weekend.
Winger Douglas Costa, now recovered from a hand injury, believes it is the perfect opportunity to get back on track: “Metalurh are a good team and matches against them are always very difficult. A derby is derby.
“Everything is going well, though, as per usual. We are ready to switch back to the Ukrainian league, to play well and to continue our winning streak.”
