Ernest Faber spoke to the media on Friday afternoon ahead of Sunday’s big game at home to Feyenoord. PSV have their destiny in their own hands, according to PSV’s interim head coach. “The key to success is to move forward and attack. I really believe we can end Feyenoord’s winning streak. We will be confident on home turf and are in a buoyant mood after three wins in a row”, said Faber at his weekly press briefing.
Key to success
PSV slipped to a 3-1 defeat against Feyenoord in this season’s reverse encounter in De Kuip in Rotterdam. PSV were the better team in the first half but collapsed after the break. A lot has changed since then. Last week, PSV came back from a goal down to claim a 2-1 win over Vitesse. “I didn’t attend the game”, said Faber, referring to the meeting at Feyenoord, earlier this season. “But we currently concede fewer goals and put in solid and stable defensive displays. The key to success on Sunday will be to gain possession, move forward and attack.”
Feyenoord
Faber did not want to elaborate on Feyenoord’s tactical game plan, but obviously realises that Feyenoord are an in-form side. “We face a stern test as Feyenoord are a tough side to beat. But we play at home and want to extend our unbeaten run and finish the season on a high.”
Advocaat
Feyenoord have remained unbeaten since Dick Advocaat took over after Jaap Stam’s departure. Faber was Advocaat’s assistant in the 2012/13 season when PSV won the Dutch Super Cup. “I look forward to seeing him again. He was my coach when I was a PSV player and has led Feyenoord to an impressive run of results. It’s up to us to end their winning streak.”
Open training
PSV fans are welcome for an open training on Saturday, ahead of Sunday’s clash with Feyenoord. “We would like to convert the energy generated by the fans into Sunday’s big game. With momentum on our side, we look forward to the game. We did not stand a chance when we faced Willem II, it was said, but with the invaluable help of our loyal fans we turned things around. We absolutely need the fans to be successful.”
Injury update
PSV have no fresh injury concerns ahead of Feyenoord’s visit to the Philips Stadion. Donyell is out for the rest of the season but other than that PSV’s interim head coach a full-strength squad to select from