Ramadani: We are ready for the match against Shkëndija of Tetovo

Drita coach Zekrija Ramadani said they had tried to get the team back into shape after the break for the national teams.

He said the entire squad had been available for the last four training sessions and they more or less knew who would start.

Ramadani stated that the whole team was ready.

“Before I answer, I want to take this moment, following the sad news that Shpat Kasapi has passed away. He was a friend and a companion of ours. I want to offer my condolences to everyone. Now, back to the question. We tried to get the team back into shape during the break we had for the national teams. The medical staff managed to complete the squad. They are the key people. The entire squad was available for the last four training sessions. We more or less know who will start. Perhaps it would not be fair to the footballers to say who will play. As for Tusha, I want to deliver the news with two sides to it. We expected him to return in December, but he is ready. We removed him from the UEFA list because we needed another footballer. The whole team is ready. I hope that tomorrow we will give our best, while respecting Shkëndija. We have the most difficult match ahead of us,” he said.

Ramadani added that, given Shkëndija's performances in this competition, this is a special match.

According to him, there are two Albanian teams facing each other, one day before Flag Day.

“We are under pressure. We are playing in front of our fans. This is the most difficult match we have had in the international arena. I certainly believe in the team; it is good that the whole squad has returned. Except for Mesa. He will be out for a long time too. I am convinced that every footballer who makes the starting lineup and gets the chance to play will give their last ounce to achieve the goal. We are coming off a win in Dublin. We went there with many absences, without four strikers. We got a positive result. It will be harder than in Dublin. I have confidence in my team, based on the training sessions we have had. We have done the analysis and shared all the information; the team will be highly motivated tomorrow,” he continued.

Regarding the fan groups, he said he was convinced that many other fan groups would learn from them.

“I don't think it will be festive on the pitch. There will be a sporting battle on the field. Both teams are looking for a win. I have seen the preparations the fan groups have made. I am convinced they have prepared a message to send to Europe. They may be coordinated, putting on a spectacle from which many fan groups will learn. There will be a celebration in the stands. We have to give our best. For us, there will be no celebration. After the match, we will play in the Super League,” he said.

Ramadani stated that he had been a footballer for Shkupi for 7 years.

“We have had few duels with Shkëndija, as there was no stability in the Macedonian First League. But I was with Shkëndija for a short time in 2011 or 2012. They have always been a strong rival. But there has been a great rivalry between the fan groups. I can't say that I have had many duels against Shkëndija. But I respect this team until the match starts. Once it starts, though, we will be aiming for all three points,” he said.

He added that there was no greater reward than qualifying for the Conference League.

Ramadani said their focus was on winning all three points, not on the money.

“Money comes and goes; our focus is not on the money. Our focus is on the three points. I don't know how much the bonus is. We are at a secure club. We have received what was promised. We have received a good bonus. I haven't heard any footballer mention the bonus. I have no idea what the amount is. We have also received a bonus for a draw. But with eight points, we are very close to qualifying. That will be the best bonus,” he said.