Ivan Obradovic on Gent away

Partizan squad travels to Belgium tomorrow for a UEFA Conference League round 4 fixture against K.A.A. Gent. Left-back Ivan Obradovic spent five years playing in Belgium, with Mechelen and Anderlecht, and we spoke to 33-year old ahead of this crucial competition`s meeting.

“I`d like to compare Gent game with Santa Clara first leg – we learned more about our opponents. We didn`t play well in Belgrade but we have a new opportunity now. We need to be brave in Belgium and I hope for a positive result”, said Ivan Obradovic.

Partizan left-back talked about Gent`s form as well.

“They had a turbulent start of the season but they picked up their form. Gent played their trademark game against us. After winning in a cup game, Gent lost league match at home to the hit team of season – Royale Union. I`m sure Gent will want to play as best as they can, as a win against us will secure them group`s top spot”.

During his five-year spell in Belgium, Obradovic learned about style of football played there and underlines Gent shouldn`t be underestimated.

“I played there for five or six seasons and their league is more demanding compared to ours. The game they played against us, they play such games every weekend, it`s a league full of good teams. For sure, Gent needs to be respected, they were champions of Belgium with the same coach they have today three or four years ago and they are regulars in European competitions. It will be an interesting encounter on Thursday. I hope we`ll be in true fashion there and win the points”.

Unfortunately, boss Stanojevic was sent-off after the final whistle of Belgrade`s meeting with Gent.

“Support of the coach is important, he`s great when it comes to leading us from the dugout, sends us a needed energy. We`ll miss him but we will get ready for this game and I hope we will not feel Stanojevic`s absence too much”, said Ivan Obradovic.