Manuel da Costa: Move to Lokomotiv will help me improve my game

Manuel da Costa, who has moved to Lokomotiv recently, commented on his transfer to the Moscow-based club.

«You have decided to leave the English Premier League for the Russian championship. Is it a step back in your career?»

«I do not think so. For me personally, a step backwards was to stay in West Ham, where I couldn’t be sure in my place in the line-up. Moving to Lokomotiv is an opportunity to improve my playing style. Many famous footballers played in the Russian championship. It has teams like CSKA, Zenit, and Lokomotiv. I think these are your top three clubs. I’ve also heard of Spartak Moscow and Dynamo.»

«Victor Obinna Nsofor, your West Ham friend, also moved to the Moscow club. Did Lokomotiv representatives convince both of you at the same time?»

«Negotiations were conducted separately. I only consulted with my family. However, I’m really glad that my friend Victor is also here. It is easier to adapt together.»

«You must know some of the foreigners that play for the Russian clubs. Miguel Danny from Zenit, for example. Or Balasz Dzsudzsak who moved from PSV to Anzhi recently.»

«I didn’t contact Dzsudzsak at PSV a lot. I know Danko Lazovic much better. I also know Danny, Bruno Alves. Well, loads of people, really.»

«You must have met Danny in the Portugal youth national team.»

«No, I didn’t. I know him and Alves only because they are Portuguese. Well, we will be able to get to know each other better in Russia,» said the player according to Sport-Express.