Igor Cherevchenko: We were better in every aspect

Lokomotiv head coach Igor Cherevchenko summarized the 1:1 return leg draw against Fenerbahce of the Europa League round of 32.

- I am pleased with how we performed. Yesterday at the press conference I said there would be changes to the starting XI – and they were there. I am positive our team surpassed the rival in every aspect of play. But it’s football. I wish Fenerbahce further progress in the Europa League.

- What do you think of the disallowed goal?

- I haven’t seen the footage yet - and it is always hard to judge from the dugout. I am going to watch it all in the replay. Do you mean it was a legal goal? Well, it is the linesman’s decision. I keep away from commenting on the refereeing.

- What do you think of Miranchuk playing a forward?

- We tried that during the camp. Alexey makes a good impression. You have witnessed the runaround he gave the other side’s back four.

- What did you say to your players at half-time?

- I said we needed to score one more goal, two more if possible. It could have been done – there were many chances created.

- Why was Ndinga subbed off? Was he injured or failed to catch up with the game?

- Ndinga has a slight injury. And how could he not catch up in the first 15 minutes?

- How do you assess the performance of Rifat Zhemaletdinov who has started featuring in competitive matches for the main team?

- Rifat had already appeared for Loko while at the training camp and showed great form. Therefore, we had no reservations bringing him on, and he helped the squad. We are satisfied with Rifat and with the rest of the guys. I would also like to say thank-you to our fans for coming and supporting the team!