Due to three yellow cards, young player Josip Juranovic was suspended in the match against Rijeka and now returnes for the match against Osijek, this Sunday at Gradski vrt, kick - off 15:00.
Juranović arrived to Hajduk at the beginning of last year from Third League club Dubrava, after he was declared the best player of the Third League West. Earlier, he also won the title of the best Croatian amateur player (chosen by Nike), which earned him a week - long stay in a football camp in London.
This 20-year-old midfielder is a very important part of coach Damir Buric's team. He is a versatile player that can play several positions, for which he enjoys great trust of the coach. He already proved to be a valuable, talented footballer that constantly makes further progress.
Last round against Rijeka, you paused for three yellow cards. What was it like to watch the game from the stands?
"It is difficult when you can't help the team. In the first half we were much better opponent in the match. In the second half, we fell a little due to a loss of concentration. I was very sorry because I thought that finally we can win against Rijeka, which recently seems to be impossible".
You return to the team for the next match in Osijek, where Hajduk is traditionally playing tough matches?
"We always had tough matches in Osijek, but last year Andrija Balic scored for a victory after seven years. They are particularly inspired in the matches against Hajduk, the players and their fans, but that's the beauty of football. Somebody likes you, somebody doesn't, but I expect a tough game and our victory".
You scored your first goal for Hajduk against Lokomotiva?
"It was an amazing feeling, I was over the moon at that moment. That goal meant a lot to me, and I hope that there will be even more goals in the future".
You played many different positions in the team. Where do you prefer playing?
"I prefer playing offensive midfielder. I can actively participate attacking and return to defense, which is required and expected of me".
Coach Damir Buric has confidence in you and sees you as a versatile player who can cover several positions. What do you think of it?
"For me it is a plus, I give my best in every game wherever the coach puts me. I'll do whatever he considers necessary"
What are your impressions about working with the coach Buric?
"Coach has made a collective out of a group of players, he created a team. We all respect each other and we don't mind working when it's time to work. There are also moments of relax and joking, but of course all within the allowed limits".
You came to Hajduk as a midfielder. You were the best player of the first half of the season in the 3rd League West as a player of Dubrava. Did you expect a call from Hajduk?
"To be honest, I was not expecting an interest of Hajduk, but obviously I deserved it. It was on January 05, 2015. We played (Dubrava) against Istra, I scored two goals. I heard that Hajduk noted me, but I didn't believe it. When it became a reality, I thought I was dreaming and later came a light pressure. I made a debut a year ago against Rijeka (coach Vucevic). Too bad we didn't win that game because we really played well but I hope that we will soon manage to win Rijeka. "
How did you get around when you came to Split?
"I slept at the stadium hotel along with Antonio Zupan and Toma Basic. There were also other guys from our B teams and we sticked together: Domej, Hairlahović etc. I played for the B team for which I have scored several goals, which was followed by a call to the first team, where I became a regular starter. My effort has paid off. "
Did you get used to the city and the conditions here?
"My girlfriend Sanda came to live with me, she's supporting me as well as the whole family. Split is a beautiful city, there are great places where we can go and it is really nice, especially along the coast where the view is fantastic. All in all, I'm loving the city and the people. I have to point out that it is amazing how one day can be so hot and the next day so windy that it penetrates literally to the bone".
Who are your favorite teammates?
"My closest teammates are Toma Basic, Vojkovic, Maloku, Simic.They are of my age, but we all respect each other and hang out."
What do you think about your game in these 15 months in Hajduk? Can you point out your playing strengths and weaknesses?
"I would describe it as very good, but there is still room for improvement. I'll do anything to improve my game further. My strenghts are that I can run a lot, I can cover a large part of the pitch. I enjoy having the ball and outplaying opponents. Our supporters want to watch real football and I try to give it to them by my style of playing. "
You were recently invited to the youth national team?
"Yes, unfortunately I was injured. It would be my first time to play for the national team. They are soon having a new gathering and I hope to get the invitation of the coach Gracan".
You played against a lot of opponents in the League, who was the most challanging?
"Tomasov caused most problems to me. He is very tough to keep, especially when going one-on-one, he is extremely fast".
Best MAXtv First League player?
"Tino Susic, definitely".
How does it feel to pass through a sudden transition from amateur to professional football?
"The biggest difference is that you have better players with you. In the amateur league, you have two to three players who can make a contribution to the game, but here each player can contribute the game and the result. It is a big difference, but fortunately I adapted very quickly".
Do the fans stop you on the street?
"When I scored against Lokomotiva, at Brda, the neighbourhood where I live, everyone congratulated me. It's a great neighborhood, I have my peace on the top floor of the building. Fans often stop me in the downtown too. I especially remember the atmosphere before the game against Rijeka, when we were the leading club. Wherever I came, they shouted 'Let's win tomorrow' '. It's a pleasure to play for Hajduk".
What are your further ambitions with Hajduk?
"I want to win trophies with Hajduk. This is the main goal of the entire team and the fans. Hajduk is a big club and we have to finally bring a new rophy to our Trophy hall".
Do you have any message for the loyal fans?
"I want to ask them to continue supporting us in every match. It is much easier when you have Torcida behind your backs. We give our best in every game. Sometimes the results don't show it, but I believe it will change soon" concluded Juranovic.
