Ricardo Pepi started in the starting lineup today and was to be praised for his performance against PEC Zwolle. The striker thought he had scored a hat trick, but his third goal ended up being credited to someone else.
What did it do to you when you heard you were starting?
"I really liked it. I like to mentally prepare myself for what my role is on race day. That's the most important thing for me and then I'm just ready when and where I need to be."
Were you disappointed that it didn't turn out to be a hat trick?
"Rules are rules, unfortunately. Regardless, I'm happy with the goal I scored. For me it just counts."
How do you look at your role at PSV?
"As a player you want to play as much as possible, but at times like this I have to show precisely that they can give me confidence. I have no other option but to be patient. My role is what the coach wants and where he needs me. I like to show myself in moments like this and score goals."
You played more than half an hour together with Luuk in attack. What was that like?
"It was very special. Being able to share the field with Luuk, especially when there is a lot of space and we can both attack, was very nice. It worked out well today and I'm glad that worked out so well."
How is your relationship with Luuk?
"We have a good relationship with healthy competition. He is a good player and a real PSV legend. It's very special to be able to learn from him and as I just said, to play with him. I have all the respect for him."
Which goal was your favorite?
"Header goals are always the best goals I think. Those are the hardest goals, especially for me. For Luuk it's normal, but for me header goals are really special."