#PLStories- Nuno Espirito Santo provides insight to team selection in Europa Conference defeat #THFC
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Nuno Espirito Santo
Thoughts on the result?
It was a tough match, tough match like we expected. Always away from home in Europe in the Conference League is tough. I think we compete well, in terms of attack I think we should finish the actions better. Some combinations were missing. There was a period in the second half when we lost a little bit of control but in terms of lack of focus in the moment of the goal, details that we should improve like we always do. The Conference League is always a chance to have minutes on the players, players who work hard and deserve. This is what it’s all about so let’s progress. In terms of the group I think we have two games at home against Vitesse and Rennes and then we have to play Mura. We can solve the situation of the group.
Do you think some of those players took their chance?
That is not the question. It’s about having minutes, compete, improve because like you know we have a tough, tough schedule ahead of us and we will need all the players in the best condition as possible.
Should you have had someone stronger on the bench to turn to if you needed?
You have to discuss the options, the decision was made. We took a little moment to decide and we decided to bring the players that started with the Under-23s to give us support. We only used Dilan, because we considered only the game required that.
You started nine internationals on the pitch, do you think you can expect more from those guys?
I knew that the game was going to be tough. I am not here to judge the players, I am here to try and improve. The analysis and judgement we do behind closed doors, I am sure you understand.
What did you make of Steven Bergwijn’s performance?
He needs to get back to levels of fitness. He was more involved in the first half. Second half naturally he dropped a little bit, but this is what we need for the players to be on the pitch to get the best fitness levels possible.
Glenn Hoddle said on TV that Tottenham’s attitude was wrong and they need to look at themselves in the mirror, agree with that?
I am not going to comment on any comments from Glenn, with all my respect. My analysis is made between us and what I have to say I will say to the players.
Is it difficult for these players to be motivated when they perhaps feel they are the second string players who play in this competition?
I don’t consider it this way. A football match is always a chance to compete. Our approach is always the same, we expect our players to compete in all the matches, no matter the competition.
Do you think Dane Scarlett is ready to play at this level?
Dane is 17-years-old. It is tough for him but many of our players when they were 17 were not involved in first-team football. he is full of talent, of course details that comes with experience and experience is when he competes against tough opposition like he did today.
Would you prefer to have a more experienced back-up striker for Harry in the squad?
The squad is what we have and it my job to take care of all of them, I am not going to comment.
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