Van Den Spiegel wants to speak Russian too

CSKA new center Tomas Van Den Spiegel mentioned in his first interview in Moscow that he would like to learn to speak Russian in three weeks. The same did the head coach of the team Ettore Messina as soon as he arrived in Moscow this summer. The new CSKA center also said some words on his contract and himself as a player.

When did you receive an offer from CSKA? What was you reaction?

- About a week ago. And I was very surprised because at that time I was trying to leave my former club Lottomatica and to find a new one. So when CSKA bosses declared they wanted to see me in the squad I arrived here as quickly as possible.

Why did you decide to leave Lottomatica?

- I started the season quite well, but then I got an injury – my ankle was sprained – and missed 2 weeks. When I recovered there was no space in rotation left for me. So I had limited playing time and, of course, I had to change something in my life. And now I can say that it’s a great opportunity for me to be a part of such team.

We will you be ready to step on court for CSKA?

- On Sunday, I hope. I had to hurry up with my preparations before arriving to Moscow. It took me some time. But now I’m here and I’ll be happy if coach would like me to be on court against UNICS.

Have you ever worked with Ettore Messina?

- Messina was a coach of my team on Seria A All-Star game about two years ago. And I played against his Benetton very often. I know his system well. I think he is a good, focused coach.

Is it important to you to be a starting center?

No, it’s not. There are a lot of strong individuals there and it’s OK – I think every big team needs to have 12-13 players that can step up on court when the time is right. So if I wouldn’t start it won’t be a problem.

Your contact expires after this season. Would you like to renew it in June?

- Yes. I will have 3-4 months to prove everybody I worth to be there. I will work hard; give 100 % on court and do all I can to stay at CSKA.

Did you ask some questions to your former partner Matjaz Smodis about CSKA, Moscow and Russian league?

Yes, I did. And he found only the best words to describe my new club and country. I also phoned to Gianmarco Pozzecco who agreed with Matjaz. And it’s the best characteristics. Pozzecco is the most difficult person I have ever met so it means a lot.