England U21 national team player Gittens recently accepted an interview and shared his team life during the training camp in October, his outlook for the upcoming European Youth Qualifiers, and the changes in their roles in the new team.
How do you build team cohesion off the court?
Gittens: "I really enjoyed my time in U21. This is a great group of partners and the atmosphere is really good. It is very fun to be with these guys. We will play some games, such as UNO or Werewolf, just to let everyone relax and laugh."
"When I first came to U21, I was the youngest on the team, so it was more Be quiet and just do your own thing. But now, I feel that I have to play more of a leader role, actively communicate with everyone, involve everyone, and become a so-called 'big brother' to a certain extent, so that everyone can come to me and talk about anything."
How do you evaluate the last qualifier against Kazakhstan (2-0 win)?
Gittens: "That was our first game as a new team. At the beginning, we were still trying to adapt to each other's playing styles and understand everyone's preferences. We did a good job in that game, controlled the game well and dominated, and we must continue to maintain it in the next games."
What are you looking forward to in the games against Moldova and Andorra?
Gittens: (vs. Moldova) It should be a tough game. We are facing a different team and they are going to do everything they can to disrupt us and we have to expect that and be ready. "
"This game (against Andorra) is similar to the one against Moldova, but it's at home, so we'll probably be more confident. This should be a very high-intensity game and very exciting. Fans can expect to see creative, entertaining football, with plenty of dribbling and attacking action. "
What is the team's goal at this stage?
Gittens: "Obviously, qualifying for the U21 European Cup is a big deal. We have to dominate the game. We try to win games but also make it clear to everyone that we are here to win, not just to perform. "