Luka Cucin: I can handle the pressure

Partizan academy graduate Luka Cucin is expected to fill the boots of skipper Miroslav Vulicevic. This 19-year old right-back made his eventful Partizan debut yesterday against Zemun.

– Absolutely incredible, until the other day I could only think about playing at Partizan ground and now I made my first team debut and my dream has come true. It`s a great privilege I did winter preps with the team which did a lot for my confidence. I learned from senior players every day – how they behave and how they train. They treat newcomers as equals, ready to advice you on any matter at all times, says Cucin.

You conceded a penalty on your debut.

– I don`t want to comment that penalty decision, it was all clear for everyone to see.

Guess you felt straight away how tough it is to play for Partizan?

– The pressure is certainly there but I try to minimize it and to keep calm. As Partizan kids, we all learn about pressure from early days and however hard it can be we are proud of every moment spent on the pitch. Pressure makes you stronger and we can all handle it.

Late in the game you assisted for Partizan equalizer.

– That was a reward for massive effort but I`m gutted we conceded that penalty earlier on. Most importantly, we picked up after that and pushed forward even stronger.

What did your teammates said to you after the game?

-They were supportive and they encouraged me to keep it going. That means a lot to me.