Smolyakov: "I have many acquaintances at "Kharkiv", and this became an important factor"

Defender Artem Smoliakov, who recently joined "Kharkiv", talked about his move from "Los Angeles" and his first impressions of the new club.

– How did the interest arise, how were the negotiations?

– Everything was very simple. I had a conversation with several teams - and eventually chose "Kharkiv".

– What attracted you, what was the main argument to choose "Kharkiv"?

– I already know many guys here, I know the coach, even played a bit with him. It also matters.

– Actually, you started in adult football with Bartulovich. What was he like then, what instructions did he give? How do you remember that period?

– I can even say now that he was already like a coach to me back then, because he helped me a lot. We stayed after training, worked. Lots of advice - not only about football, but also about life.

– Give examples. What did Bartulovich maybe teach you?

– A lot about football. I can say that partly because of him I ended up in "Los Angeles". I worked a lot after training.

– Have you already talked to the head coach? I know you talked before the transfer, when everything was just starting. Have there been conversations now on how the coach wants to integrate you into the team?

– No, we haven't had a chance to talk about it yet, because I just arrived, there was a lot to do, I need to get used to the time zone, blend into the team, train a bit. Of course, we will definitely talk later.

– The team has already had training camps, preparing for the season. How do you assess your current form? How ready are you to start the season?

– I am also ready to start. I haven't trained with the team in "Los Angeles" in the last few days, but I also went through the training camp with them. I just need a little time here - and I can start.

– While you were playing in MLS, how closely did you follow the Ukrainian championship - especially the matches of "Kharkiv", then "Metalist 1925"?

– Honestly, I often followed my former team "Polissya", "Kharkiv". When the matches were at 8 in the morning for me, I tried to watch," Smoliakov said.