Zira will play their first match in the Misli Premier League tomorrow.

The Eagles goalkeeper Aydin Bayramov has given his first interview of the new season to Offsideplus.az:

— Although Tiago Silva has left the team, there will be competition with the new goalkeeper. Does this concern you?

— No, it doesn't concern me. Competition is a part of football, and I see it as normal. On the contrary, having quality goalkeepers in the team helps both my development and that of the team. I need to work on myself and show that I deserve to play in the starting lineup. Whoever is in better form should play.

— You spent a lot of time on the bench last season. Did you receive offers from other clubs at the end of the season?

— I had a contract with 'Zira', and I feel good here. The club trusts me, and I want to justify that trust. Right now, I am focusing all my attention on 'Zira' and the new season.

— Zira has always managed to compete successfully against clubs with larger budgets. This season, the competition will be even tougher. Is Zira's minimum target still to qualify for European competitions?

— Of course, the targets at Zira are always high every season. We know that the competition in the league will increase. But for us, the main issue is to show our game, focus on each match, and collect as many points as possible. Qualifying for European competitions is one of our main goals. Additionally, we want to compete for higher positions as well.

— Even though you weren't called up for the last training camp, you are one of the main candidates to guard the goal for the Azerbaijan national team. Are you expecting a call-up for the next camp?

— Playing for the national team is a great honour for every footballer. Of course, I want to be called up, and I am working towards that. But the final decision is made by the coaching staff. My job is to perform well at my club, play consistently, and show myself in every game. If I can demonstrate good performance, I believe I will receive a call-up to the national team.

— What are your expectations for the new season?

— My main desire is to play more, contribute to the team, and show myself in the best shape. I have drawn certain conclusions from last season. In the new season, I want to be a more confident, more stable goalkeeper with more match experience. Most importantly, I want to help 'Zira' achieve its goals.