Presser points | Galatasaray vs Spurs | Dominic Solanke
Thu 07 November 2024, 09:15|Tottenham Hotspur
Dominic Solanke spoke to the media before training at Galatasaray's Rams Park on Wednesday evening, ahead of tonight's UEFA Europa League clash in Istanbul (5.45pm UK).
Here's what he had to say...
Feeling good
First up, Dom was asked how he felt in terms of fitness, after the shifts he's been putting into matches...
Dom: "I feel great. Obviously we've got a lot of games this season which we want to have, there are a lot of competitions we want to do well in and go for, so we’re going to need everyone. Me, personally, I'm quite a fit person, I like to work hard, so I with the staff that we've got, everyone's looking out for us and making sure we get right for each game. So, we're thankful for that."
Three Lions
Dom was next asked, 'the England squad is announced tomorrow, Thomas Tuchel has been announced as manager but us not taking over yet - is that going to be strange?'
Dom: "Since the last camp, we had the news that the new manager will be taking over. I’m not sure he’s going to be there, he’s going to be taking over from next year. That’s something to look forward to for the country. On a personal note, I’d love to be there again. I worked hard to get back there, so it’s definitely an aim of mine to stay there."
Villa ice
It was put to Do, 'you produced that ice-cool finish against Villa for your first goal but hadn't scored for six games before that. Where did that calmness and composure come from after not scoring for a couple of weeks?'
Dom: "It is just about staying right, staying sharp in your mind. You are always going to miss chances and sometimes you might not get chances, but it's important to stick with it, especially being a striker, there will be times when you do get the chance and you need to be ready for that."
Welcome to Turkey
Dom was welcomed to Turkey by local journalists, and asked what he thought of Galatasaray and the atmosphere expected at the game...
Dom: "Thank you. Yeah, everyone knows how big a club Galatasaray is and the atmosphere they create in their stadium is immense. As a footballer, that is something everyone wants to be a part of. In our squad, we have a lot of players who have played in big tournaments, big stadiums and big atmospheres. I think we'll be ready for it - it's something we're looking forward to."
What do you know of Galatasaray?
Dom: "Galatasaray is a huge club with a lot of history, they've had a lot of top players over the years. They've obviously got some great players now, so we know it will be a tough game. In Europe, every game is tough and we're looking forward to the challenge."
What's the hottest atmosphere you have faced?
Dom: "You've put me on the spot there! I'm trying to think. Off the top of my head, I probably can't pick out one, but there has been quite a few over the years. With the young players, it is good for everyone to learn and experience because these are the games everyone wants to be part of and play and for the young boys it will be a great experience for them."