Valdas Dambrauskas: We are happy to be in the Champions League

Sabah head coach Valdas Dambrauskas answered questions from journalists at a press conference ahead of their away match against Viking in the Champions League.

Operativ Media reports that the Lithuanian specialist spoke about the importance of the upcoming match, the team's current tight schedule, and travel difficulties.

Touching upon discussions regarding artificial turf pitches, the head coach recalled the climate conditions of his home country:

"I do not consider myself authoritative enough to comment on this issue. As far as I know, it has not been proven that artificial pitches cause more injuries or health risks. I come from Lithuania, and I know how difficult it is to play on natural grass there due to climate conditions. We start the season and play on artificial pitches, and sometimes indoors, until around the end of April or early May. That is the climate, and we adapt to the conditions."

Speaking about the team's heavy schedule, Dambrauskas drew attention to the players' workload:

"In such a tight schedule, there are always minor injuries and knocks. Next Sunday will mark 28 days since our first game after the international break, and during that period, we will have played eight matches. That means we take the pitch every three to four days. Nevertheless, this is a big game for all of us and a dream for many. Many players who are not in the Champions League would want to be in my players' shoes. And we are happy to be in this tournament. I think we have selected the 23 most prepared and best conditioned players for tomorrow. We will make a decision regarding one or two players after tonight's training session."

Speaking about the impact of travel fatigue on the recovery process, the coach noted that a heavy burden falls on the medical staff:

"We had a very tough game last Friday. The difficulty is not just the game itself, but also the travel. Yesterday, we had a five-hour flight to Norway. Before our previous match as well, we traveled six hours by train to get to that game, and then had a six-hour journey back. We arrived back around four in the morning. In such cases, recovery time is significantly reduced. The body is constantly fatigued, and our training time decreases too. The main challenge is keeping the players as rested and healthy as possible. This falls on both the medical staff and the coaches. As for technical preparation, I think we are ready."

Stating that he returned to Norway for football after many years, the head coach shared his pleasant impressions:

"26 years ago, I stayed in Norway for about three and a half, maybe almost four months. A long time has passed, and I am surprised myself that I am returning to Norway only now. It feels very pleasant and wonderful to be here again. Especially being here for football, rather than any other reason."