Bénes: “I enjoy every minute”

Midfielder László Bénes discusses his first game of the season, the Foals’ performances to date and the busy schedule.

Laci, last weekend you played your first game of the season in Leverkusen. How good was it to be back?

Bénes: It was great to be back. My last game was months ago, so after that long wait, through summer and because of injury, it was a great feeling to be on the pitch for Borussia again. But in the end, I wasn’t happy because we lost the game. 

Why were you unable to turn the game around after going 3-2 down?

Bénes: There were some periods in the game that didn’t go as planned. Nonetheless, we managed to get a 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, they equalised soon after that and then we were a little unlucky to go 3-2 down. I was introduced to the game just after that. We tried everything towards the end, but going 4-2 down made it extremely difficult. We only made it 4-3 through what I think is the goal of the season from Valentino Lazaro.

You’re seventh in the Bundesliga after seven games, and you’re top of your Champions League group halfway through. How do you think the season has gone so far?

Bénes: We can be pleased on the whole. We’ve had some busy weeks behind us when we’ve played every three or four days. Our work in the Champions League has been outstanding so far. It’s been ok in the Bundesliga too, even though we’re frustrated with the defeat in Leverkusen. If we had won there, we’d now be fourth and we’d be talking about almost the perfect start.

There are ten games in four and a half weeks before Christmas. Are you hopeful of making more appearances with such a busy schedule?

Bénes: I’ve been fit for a couple of weeks now and I’m feeling strong and in good condition. Now, I need to work hard on the training ground and impress the coach. When I get an opportunity in a game, I want to use it and help the team. I enjoy every minute I get on the pitch. 

Slovakia play against Northern Ireland tonight for a place in the 2021 EUROs. Are you disappointed that you weren’t selected for this important game?

Bénes: A little. It’s the most important game of the year for the Slovakia national side, so I would obviously like to be part of it. But I haven’t had enough match practice recently, which is why the head coach didn’t pick me. I understand. I’ll be watching on TV tonight supporting the boys. If I get to play more often for Borussia, I’ll definitely be back with the national side soon.