Retired Sunderland and Marseille winger Boudewijn ‘Bolo’ Zenden vs. Get French football news Discussing his two previous teams.
Sunderland are one of the most impressive stories in the Premier League so far. Were you surprised by their performance?
I was very impressed and surprised that they made it through the playoffs. When a team rises, the first goal is to stay ahead, which is a difficult thing to do. They spent some money in the summer but that doesn’t guarantee you results and good football. It takes time to gel. They are off to a good start this season and are well on their way to safety.
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It sounds weird, but there was a time when you needed 30-34 points to be safe. I think they have 26 now. so you can suggest them [close to being] Somewhere halfway through the season is safe. It could also be the fact that when the team plays Sunderland they will be a bit surprised by the quality they face.
They are making a name for themselves. This will make it much more difficult for them heading into the second half of the season. Teams will be set up slightly differently. If they finish in the top half of the standings (you know it’s the top ten), it’s going to be a big season for them. Beyond anyone’s expectations. If they drop back a bit and remain safe, this could still be a big season for them.
What are your thoughts on the Tyne and Wear derby at the weekend? As a Sunderland player, what was your impression of the game?
This is a game that people have been looking forward to. The best games you see from a quality perspective aren’t always the ones that have so much heart and passion put into them; sometimes the mind can kind of lose it. I believe there was a time when whenever a Sunderland player made a tackle the crowd would start cheering.
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Glad they got the results [1-0 win]but if you look at it from a different perspective, if you look at the statistics, the game is pretty even. It can go both ways. Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs was doing quite well and he needed to make some saves there. Like I said, it’s an equal game. This is a positive thing for Sunderland fans [especially] After so many years. They haven’t played a Tyne and Wear derby in a long time and everyone is very eager and excited for this game. You saw the celebrations and the whole atmosphere before the game. The Stadium of Light lights up.
It’s a special day, especially for Sunderland fans. And now [the fans] There is talk that Sunderland could finish above Newcastle in the Premier League. I don’t think that’s the most important thing to take away from this game. As I said, Sunderland have had a successful season; as long as they stay up, what happens next isn’t that important.
Marseille has a great reputation, especially in football. Can you tell me a bit about your experience playing football in Marseille?
I thoroughly enjoyed my two seasons there. I really enjoy playing for Marseille. When things are going well, it’s great to be out there and when things aren’t going well, it can be a little difficult for the players. They’re obviously demanding and enthusiastic; it’s a vibrant place. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting it over the past few years. The rooftop wasn’t closed when I was playing, so now that it’s closed, the fans are very loud and lively. This is something I really enjoy. Unfortunately, I finished third and second. I really want to win the league with Marseille. They actually won the championship the season I left, ending an 18-year wait. This is a special place, a really passionate and dynamic football environment.
Boudewijn Zenden speaks exclusively on behalf of Get France Football News casino beats.
GFN | Nick Hartland
