Thanks to the critics - I did not have to motivate the team

Lokomotiv’s head coach Marko Nikolic reflects on the derby win against CSKA (1:0) in Gameweek 9 of the Russian Premier League.

- I want to congratulate the team on the victory. I really liked the game that I saw on the field. We deserved the three points. Scored a goal, but also hit the post and crossbar, and had other chances. We could have finished the game earlier. The last four matches have been difficult, but we haven't conceded a single goal. There was a real team on the pitch today.

Thanks to everyone who criticized us and called us a weak team. I didn't have to motivate the players for the game - I just repeated everything that was written in the media.

- Why did Ignatjev play as a left midfielder?

- Because he is experienced and quality player. We talked a lot, he knows his position. Vlad can play as a left back, right back and winger. I am happy that I have a player who can cover four or five positions on the field.

- CSKA controlled the game for 35 minutes, then Lokomotiv had the advantage. Was it part of your plan?

- I have a lot of respect for CSKA, their coach, so it would be disrespectful to talk about the superplan that worked. I am happy that we won. That's all I can say.