Fresh off his MLS player of the week performance, the result of the league’s first hat-trick in a 6-1 demolition of Minnesota United, Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez answered a few questions ahead of Saturday’s game against Chicago at Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium.
Q: Describe the conditions of the game in Minnesota.
A: We were happy to get the win, especially after that first win escaped us, whether it was mental mistakes or fatigue. We let that one get away from us. We were happy to get the win in Minnesota and now we are focused on the upcoming game and getting a good result.
Q: (On being named player of the week).
A: It’s a joy to be named the player of the week, but I have to thank the coaching staff and the rest of the team for their help. I didn’t do it myself. It’s great to win it in the second week. Hopefully it’s the first of many.
Q: Do you get anything from the league for being named the Player of the Week?
A: Nothing yet. But it’s the first time, so we will see.
Q: How do you carry the momentum of carrying three goals into Chicago and the upcoming road trip?
A: By training. You just have to train like you did the last week and keep working hard in practice and then during the game, stay focused for 90 minutes and finish the chances that occur.
Q: On playing for the Venezuelan national team.
A: It’s really exciting for any player to be called up to your national team, it’s the biggest honor there is. For us, Venezuela, we are in a difficult spot so the games are really important. We just have to try to stay focused and do what we can and play well in these important matches.
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