For team captain Mauro Biello, an experience like this one is priceless and beneficial for a young player’s career.
“They are exposed to the European soccer culture and they are learning a new tactical approach,” says Biello, who will play his 15th career season with the Impact in 2008. “I remember when I was young, I was excited to be part of a professional team. Just like them, I had the same desire to improve myself.”
“I’m taking it one day at a time and I’m working hard,” explains defender Alex Surprenant, 18, who officially joined the team last Tuesday by accepting a one-year deal plus an option. “As Mauro says, we have to take each practice as a World Cup game, so I give my 100%.”
“Being team veterans, we try to guide them along and share some of our experience,” adds Biello. “We want to show them the way and lead by example. They are seeking for advice so it’s our job to help them out in every way we can. I’ve been through what they are living so I know how they feel right now.”
According to Surprenant, the presence of young Quebec prospects within the Impact this year is due to the progress in player development throughout the province.
“Today, there is a better framework surrounding young players,” notes Surprenant. “The regions are stronger and coaches are better prepared than before. I wouldn’t be surprised to see other young players joining the Impact over the next few years.”
“We are giving them a chance but they have to prove they can be part of the team,” says Impact head coach Nick De Santis. “A few players are showing right now that they can play with us. We have to be patient with them and on their side, they have to continue working every day. The exhibition games will give them further experience.”
After having tied third division club Arezzo 0-0, Thursday, the Impact will play two more friendly games in Italy against Frosinone (Serie B –second division) and Viterbese (Serie C2 – fourth division), before returning to Montreal on February 1.
PHOTOS PÉPÉ
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Source: Patrick Vallée, Montreal Impact
Info: 514-328-3668, Ext. 27
