CF Montreal head coach Hernán Losada acknowledged that the team’s long break before its next game, in addition to the current period of international games, was timely.
“We’re going to work on everything, both physically and mentally,” said the head coach after Wednesday’s practice at Olympic Stadium. I think the three days off did the players good after the last trip. It was necessary. »
Losada noted that this training allowed him to fine-tune offensive and defensive aspects of the game system. “It gave us the opportunity to work on our basics. Obviously, this break is always best taken after a victory. »
The long break also allows injured players to recover between now and their game of 1er next April in Vancouver, against the Whitecaps. This is the case, among others, of Lassi Lappalainen and Kamal Miller.
Losada said Miller didn’t play 100 percent in his last game, and the team took a risk by playing him that way.
He took the opportunity to apologize to journalists to whom he had told last week that the Canadian defender would certainly be absent against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, when the latter finally participated in the meeting. “A week ago, Wednesday, when we were here, it was impossible for him to play, but the evolution of his recovery has been incredible in one or two days. He then wanted to play, but it wasn’t the best idea, and our goal was not to lie to you or give you false information. »
In addition to a workforce that could count on the return of players to its next match, CF has also added defender Gabriele Corbo to its training. So it wouldn’t be surprising to see Losada juggle the position of their defenders over the next few games.
“It’s not impossible to employ Lassi elsewhere than on the left. It’s always easier if you play on the side of your strong foot. He can play both sides, but it also depends on the opponent and his tactics. »
In trust
Losada praised Mathieu Choiniere’s recent performances after the CF game on Saturday. The midfielder plays an important role in the club’s offensive transition, and he seems to be making his place more and more within the Montreal team.
Losada explained that one aspect of Choinière’s game not to be underestimated is his running off the ball. “Players running into defensive territory, it’s very difficult to defend. He is physically fit and can play anywhere on the pitch, while helping offensively and defensively. It gives us a lot. In addition, he is an Academy player and from here. »
Choinière said he was happy to hear his coach talk about him like this. He adds that this gives him an additional source of motivation. ” It’s pleasant. I see that he trusts me. However, I cannot stop there. I have to perform in every game. »
The midfielder does not necessarily see his role as different from the one he had in other seasons. He just wants to do what is expected of him, regardless of position on the pitch.
Choinière is not the only Quebecer on the team. And he’s starting to be a household name among fans. For him, making his place in the team and becoming a leader in the locker room comes naturally. “I think it shows. You feel it in a match when you can bring something to it. You try to give your energy to the other players and lift your teammates. »