The striker talks about the return to training

Preseason for Sporting Clube de Portugal got underway this past week, and has included the full integration of Fotis Ioannidis -the Greek international striker having recovered from the injury that prevented him from contributing to the group during part of the last season.

The Sporting CP player spoke following the opening days of work at the Academia Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that “Preseason is very important for the team and we know that. We have to work hard to achieve our goals at the end of the season.”

“The last campaign didn't end as we had hoped. We were on track throughout the season, but in the end we didn't achieve our goal. However, this season we are hungrier than ever and we are eager to fight for the Liga Portugal title -and for everything else.”

The striker also spoke about his first contact with the new reinforcements for the squad.

“They seem excellent to me. They’re really friendly, and I hope they can help us throughout the season. I'm sure they will do that.”

Ioannidis also addressed the main challenges posed in preseason.

“I think fatigue and the temperature, which has been very hot, play a big part, but it's a normal process in football. We are here to work, to get better every day. We have time for that and we are very committed.”

“It’s been a long time since I played, so I really miss that. I’m working hard because I had some tough moments last season. But now I’m ready to play.”

“The Sporting CP fans are always very close to us. I was very happy with their support last season. They got behind us a lot and I’m sure they will do that again this year. Let’s hope that we can deliver what they want and deserve,” he concluded by saying.