Russell Martin criticized some players for their lack of intensity ahead of a crucial Champions League qualifying match against Panathinaikos. Despite a comeback draw with Middlesbrough, Martin observed a downbeat attitude during preparation. He expressed frustration with the warm-up and emphasized the need for aggressive and intense play. He stated that players must be fully committed and acknowledged that not all players would start, urging everyone to maintain intensity throughout the long season. The lesson highlighted was the importance of playing with speed and aggression to avoid difficult situations on the pitch.
The first half was a bit frustrating because we're playing a good team. They're athletic, they pressed really aggressively, but a lot of the moments that were uncomfortable for us were down to a lack of intensity on our part.
If you're disappointed and especially playing for this football club, you have to show it in being more aggressive and more intense, not being downbeat and sort of just being out there and letting the game pass you by a little bit.
Whenever you step on the pitch for this club and this team, you have to be all in. There were some good moments in the first half.
If you're not gonna play with enough intensity or enough speed or enough aggression, then you'll be put into difficult situations way more than necessary.
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