Lassana Diarra believes that Anzhi Makhachkala are prospering under Guus Hiddink and has urged his side to prepare for the UEFA Champions League group stages
In the latest round of Russian Premier League action, Anzhi Makhachkala defeated Kuban Krasnodar 5-2 at Stadion Dynamo (Makhachkala) on Sunday.
Lassana Diarra marked an impressive debut against the Krasnodar-based club. The French midfielder completed ninety minutes on the pitch before being replaced by http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Nikita-Burmistrov-c27908 in the dying moments of the game.
Diarra, who joined the Makhachkala-based club from Real Madrid last month, has hailed his side’s latest win against Krasnodar, insisting that his side pleased their fans after displaying an entertaining performance at home.
The 27-year-old is of the belief that Anzhi, who moved to 3rd spot on the league table after their latest win, are capable of securing a top spot this season and assured the fans of similar performances in the near future.
Diarra, who played for Arsenal and http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Chelsea-c38786 prior to making a move to the Spanish giants, went on to thank the fans, revealing that their support reminds him of the days when he was cheered by the fans in England.
The former Portsmouth player insisted that he is pleased with his performance. However, he credited the entire side for playing well against a decent Russian First Division team coached by Slavoljub Muslin.
“The support I received from the Dagestani fans reminded me of England, where I played in the English Premier League. Fans sing and vigorously support their team in England. I think they are very similar to the fans in England.”
“I came to Anzhi to win. Since it was my first game for the Dagestani team, I wanted to prove myself. I have just started playing for a new club so I still need to adapt. For me the important thing is that the team won. We are
able to compete for the major places in the Russian Championship.” The Copa del Rey winner was quoted as saying.
Diarra went on to urge his team-mates to record a similar performance when they travel to http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Spain-c3011 to play the UEFA Europa League group stage game against Udinese.
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