Sydney FC import Karol Kisel has welcomed the pressure and expectation his arrival at the club has created, declaring himself ready for the massive challenge of lifting the A-League under-achievers.
The Slovak international looked sharp during the Sky Blues’ first pre-season hit-out on Monday, showing some nice touches and immediately working up a combination with his new team-mates during the 90-minute session.
But the 32-year-old midfielder knows the heat will intensify once Sydney’s campaign gets underway in August after a tumultuous 18-month period in which two coaches – Branko Culina and John Kosmina – were sacked following poor results and falling crowds.
Asked if expected to be under pressure, Kisel said: “Certainly. It’s always like this in our country, in Europe and in Australia too.”
“I’m here to be a good player and to take responsibility for the team and results.”
“I’m really glad that I’m here and proud to be part of Sydney FC.”
“They are a very attractive team and it’s a new challenge for me and I want to win another title.”
Kisel, who joins Sydney FC on a free transfer from Sparta Prague, was in Australia in 2000 as a member of Slovakia’s Olympic Games football squad.
He concedes his knowledge of Australian football is limited but has been left in no doubt in-coming coach Vitezslav Lavicka is the man to change Sydney FC’s fortunes.
Kisel knows the Czech’s qualities first-hand, having played under him at Sparta Prague.
“I don’t know much (about the A-League) but I know Sydney FC is one of the best clubs and they had a not so good season last year and they’re going to change it this year,” Kisel said.
“It’s good that he’s (Lavicka) here because he’s a good coach.”
Kisel, who is completing a law degree at university, is likely to be used in a central midfield role, but can also play on the right.
And while he refuses to set a target figure, the skilful midfielder has promised his fair share of goals.
“(I can’t say) the amount but I want to score some goals,” he said.
“Every year I’ve played I’ve scored some very nice goals, so I want to score here.”
Lavicka is delighted to be reunited with Kisel, who has won 23 international caps, believing the Slovak’s class will rub off on the rest of the team.
“I’m very happy Karol is here. Karol is an experienced player and a general professional,” the Sydney FC boss said.
“I think he can help Sydney FC.”
