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Managers of the Impact have expressed to the players that they need to be quick on their feet and get unite quickly as expectations are high to win. With all the new faces many of which are players with strong personalities and leadership qualities as in the case of Nigel Reo-Coker a 3 times Captain in British Premier League.
Reo-Coker seems very comfortable in taking a leadership role in the lockeroom and out on the field, he has confirmed having a private conversation with Klopas about this. He has the ability to get players to be more vocal and build strong relationships. It will be interesting to see how things go with this in relation to Bernier who is currently the team captain.
Newly acquired International Belgian Central Defender Laurent Ciman who is also known for his leadership capabilities will most likely be the man to keep the backline in check, with most of the defenders speaking French it may just add that little advantage with a fluid communication.
We know of the leadership qualities from Bakary Soumare and of Marco Donadel who was also a captain for Italy’s U21 team.
The vibe in the team is positive and we can see players are turning the page on the 2014 season with a fresh new start, with a goal to win. From players comments we can also see the team is focused to play as one and not as trios or duos, they want to play as a collective.
The Impact seem to really have what it takes now to motivate each other and to forge a team to win!
Some news about Piatti via Nicolas A Martineau - TVA Sports
"Ignacio Piatti s'entraîne seul sur le terrain. Il a subi une intervention chirurgicale au genou gauche et sera prêt pour le Mexique!"
I Asked Nicolas about Nacho and here was his reply in short
"difficile à juger, mais il ne bougeait clairement pas à son aise."
For some of us this might be worrisome but he still has one month before the match in Mexico and Klopas seemed confident he would either start or get some minutes in.
What stands out the most in speaking with the players is that there is a very positive attitude in wanting to be in Montreal and that the players are happy to be here. This is a very important factor and will play well with the fans, amongst favoured players will most likely be Bakary Soumare "Baky" who is highly motivated to be in Montreal.
Laurent Ciman also French speaking adored by fans in Belgium is also expected to bring that same love to Montreal Fans. We as fans need to embrace this new change and also renew our support for our team. As i have said in my last article this is a time of change and we all need to return to Stade Saputo and cheer on make ourselves heard.
Follow @DennyStamos
via RDS - A Revamped Defense And Renewed Optimism!
via ImpactMedia - 2 New Players Reo-Coker and Soumare Address The Media
via Impact Montreal - Frank Klopas Interview
via Douglas Gelevan of the CBC - Reo-Coker, Baky, JacMac, Bernier, Hassoun