Leslie Warner: I can guard players at multiple positions

American forward Leslie Warner gave his first impressions after joining Macedonian champions MZT Skopje, expressing satisfaction with the club, teammates and the coaching staff while setting high targets for the coming season.

"I like the team, the atmosphere, the city is great, and the food is awesome. So far I'm really enjoying everything Aerodrom has to offer. I think I've found my home away from home," Warner said at the start of the conversation.

Warner acknowledged that he arrived without deep prior knowledge of the club but that his previous season in Greece made the transition easier.

"I didn't know much before I came. Last year I played in Greece, so I knew about North Macedonia because I was nearby. But I didn't have detailed information, so I'm sure I'll learn much more now about the environment where I'll be spending the next period," he added.

Ready to help on both ends

The American stressed that the immediate focus is preparation and building team chemistry ahead of friendly fixtures.

"I expect us to come together and build great team chemistry, especially now when we are going on a short training camp outside Skopje. My only wish is wins and championship titles. The team is great, we all agree and think the same — we all want only wins and I hope we'll show that on the court soon. We were waiting for the national team players to join so we could get into full rhythm. Now everything is as it should be," Warner said about the squad's mood.

Asked what fans can expect, he was clear about his role: "I can do a bit of everything. My job is to score — that's why I'm here, but defense is also one of my strong sides. I can guard players at multiple positions," Leslie Warner explained.

On the coaching staff he added: "Working with the coaching staff has been excellent from day one, I really enjoy working with them. I believe that in the end we will celebrate together and congratulate each other for what we achieve this season," Warner concluded.

The team will travel to Gevgelija for a short mini-camp starting the day after the interview; the stay will culminate on Sunday, September 6, with a first friendly match against Kozhuv.

Photo: press material from the event