Head coach Roger Schmidt goes into Saturday's match against PEC Zwolle with high hopes. 'I expect my players to control the match and eventually win it,' he said Friday afternoon at the press conference. However, he did stress that it is not a done deal. "Despite PEC having earned only one point, they are playing very well. They have good spirit and are strong on the ball. So we have to perform at top level."
Inter country week
PSV is on the eve of a block full of matches. Despite the busy international week, Schmidt does not expect any fitness issues. "Almost all the players returned fit," he said. Both Eran Zahavi and Ibrahim Sangaré played two international matches. "Zahavi is used to playing a lot. For him it is not a problem. He is very motivated and is also fit enough. The same goes for Sangaré. Besides, he played his last international match last Monday. He still had some time to rest."
Proud
The Head Coach let it be known that he is proud of Sangaré's goals during the international period. "I was already expecting him to score. He has gained self-confidence over the past few games and has developed very much. Scoring goals has become a real quality of his. In midfield he is an important weapon. I'm very happy for him."
Injured
There was less news for Ritsu Doan. He was injured during the international period. "We don't know exactly how long the recovery period will take. We expect him not to play for the next two weeks." Maxi Romero and Ryan Thomas will also be absent Saturday. "Both players have a slight knee injury. I do expect them to be back there next week.
Fit again
Schmidt went on to say that Cody Gakpo will be present as usual despite the injury he sustained with Orange. "Gakpo is training with us and is fit enough for the match. Also Noni Madueke and Davy Pröpper can reinforce the team again."