APPIANO GENTILE – He spent his first season in Europe with Cluj in Romania, and
tomorrow Alvaro Pereira will be facing his former team.
“I still remember everything from the experience. It was my first European
team and it will always be a great memory. I left many team-mates and friends
behind in Romania, so tomorrow’s game will be a special one for me,”
stated the defender at the press conference on the eve of the clash.
“I feel great. As I’ve said, you have yet to see the Pereira from Porto. I
don’t like making comparisons. I’ve adjusted well. I’m relaxed and I’m awaiting
the coach’s decision on whether I’ll play or not. What matters is working for
the team in the best way I can.
“As for my characteristics, I can play in the back or further forward, but
that’s for the coach to decide. I’ve played for my national team and many games
with Inter with three at the back. But I repeat: I’ll play wherever the coach
wants me,” responded the Uruguayan when asked if he feels more comfortable
in a 3-5-2 or a 4-3-3, starting as a full-back.
Finally, on Diego Laxalt: “I saw him playing very well for the U-20s. But
I don’t know him well. He only started playing recently, but I believe he’s
very good.”