Vladislav Podyapolsky: "I'm happy to sign for such a big club like SKA"

HC SKA goalkeeper Vladislav Podyapolsky:

- How did you find out about your transfer to SKA?

- It was a surprise for me. I had already travelled to Yaroslavl for a match with Severstal Cherepovets, before I subsequently heard about the news at the hotel.

- What emotions did you feel when you heard the news?

- Only positive ones! I'm happy to sign for such a big club like SKA, the organisation has an experienced and strong coaching line-up.

- Do you know Dmitry Nikolaev and Sergei Ivanov?

- We haven't spoken to each other yet, but we will soon meet. There won't be any problems.

- Did you speak to any of SKA's players after the transfer was announced?

- Andrei Pedan and Nikita Kamalov sent messages to me, telling me that they will help me adapt when I arrive in Saint Petersburg. I know both of them well.

- You've already played against SKA twice this season.

- SKA have a good, quick team. It's clear that unlike other teams who just want to qualify for the playoffs, SKA want to win the Gagarin Cup. It's nice to play for such a team.

- Are you ready to play on Tuesday in front of the packed Ice Palace?

- I'm ready to play, but the decision depends on the coaching staff. I am in optimal physical shape.

- Just like Sergei Bobrovsky, you were born in Novokuznetsk. Do you know him personally?

- Yes, I do. We trained together when he travelled back home. What can I say, he is a true professional! I can use a lot of his techniques in my game.