Dutch football man Jan Olde Riekerink, the top manager (CEO) of İskenderunspor, which holds the leadership in the TFF 3rd League 2nd Group, said that they aim to reach the championship with their team and reach the 2nd League.
The Orange-Blues are in the leading position by collecting 41 points in 20 matches played in the league. Iskenderunspor, under the leadership of Riekerink, aims to print its name in the upper league as champions. Riekerink said his team did not start well in the league. Reminding that Ümit Karan served as the coach at that time, Riekerink stated that he was also responsible for the A team and the youth team.
Riekerink underlined that the bad start should not be attributed to a person and said:
There is always pressure when the results are not good. Finally, when Ümit and the club decided to leave, they asked me ‘Can you take your place?’ saying. Of course, we were there at the base of this business, we started together and now we are in the first position in the league. Of course, our aim was not to be the first until the first half, we need to protect this until the end of the season. It is very clear that we will go to the 2nd League, the easiest way is to become the champion.
“I BELIEVE IN MY PLAYERS”
Referring to the transfers, Riekerink stated that the team is renewing itself with the new players. Talking about teams that have the same goal and compete in order to go to the next league, Riekerink emphasized the need to be humble. Noting that everything will be determined at the end of the season, Riekerink said, “Of course everyone knows our aim, but there is still a long way to go to the end of the league, I believe in my players.”
GALATASARAY’S POSITION IN THE LEAGUE
Referring to the position of Galatasaray in the Super League, where he worked for a period, Riekerink said that the yellow-red people are always in his heart. Riekerink stated that he has accumulated good memories among the yellow-red people and that they were successful during his tenure. Reminding that he won two trophies in Galatasaray, Riekerink answered the question whether he would take part in the yellow-red team again in case of an offer:
I regret the position they are in right now for the club and the fans. Of course, there is nothing to be said for the end of the season. I love the club and the fans, but for now, I am working in İskenderunspor. I’m trying to help the club make it happen. I am very happy here. I have a very good relationship with the president. I love when all the people hug the club. That’s why I’m where I need to be right now, I’m happy.