Albania national team midfielder Julian Shehu spoke at a press conference at the “Football House” ahead of the last two Nations League matches against Finland and Belarus.
The Red and Black player commented on the changes in Albania’s play since the arrival of coach Rolando Maran, noting that the team is applying a more attacking style of football, while stressing the importance of implementing tactical tasks. According to Shehu, the changes made by the Italian coach have already produced the first positive results.
“I think the way the team is playing, in a more attacking style, has paid off. The important thing is that we feel good and respect the tasks the coach gives us,” the midfielder said.
Asked about the difficulty of keeping first place in the group, Shehu stressed that both matches require maximum concentration, while he considered the pressure a normal part of professional football.
“Every match has its own difficulties. We must give our maximum. Pressure is part of the game. We are professionals and we know how to handle it. We must play to get the maximum result. Of course the goal is to be at the top,” he declared.
Regarding the match against Finland, the midfielder believes the home factor and the support of the fans can make the difference for the Red and Black.
“The only difference is that this time we are playing at home. The support of the fans is a great motivation for us to get the maximum from this match,” Shehu emphasized.
He also spoke about Maran’s new tactical demands, revealing that the changes affect not just one unit but the entire squad.
“I believe the tasks have changed for the whole team. We must press more. We are ready to give our maximum in these two matches,” the footballer said.
Finally, Shehu was asked about his role in the squad, since under the previous coach, Sylvinho, he had enjoyed more opportunities as a starter. The midfielder left the decision to the coaching staff, stressing that his commitment to the Red and Black shirt remains unchanged.
“These are choices the coach makes. As long as you are part of the national team, you must give your maximum. Every time we are on the pitch, we will do our best,” Julian Shehu concluded.
Albania lead Group C1 with nine points and will seek to maintain their position in the final two matches. The Red and Black host Finland on 12 November at “Air Albania” Stadium, while on 15 November they face Belarus in Budapest.