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Sivasspor coach İsmet Taşdemir called for cleaner football in Turkey while addressing reporters at the club’s facilities before training during the international break. His team is preparing for a home match against Pendikspor in the ninth round of the league.

Taşdemir expressed concern about events beyond the pitch, citing reports that a referee had been detained a week after officiating a Sivasspor match. He urged everyone involved to concentrate on football and restore mutual trust. He also acknowledged that Sivasspor had underperformed over the opening eight games, failing to collect enough points or reach an acceptable league position.

The coach said the international break had helped injured players recover, although he opposed a three-week interruption once the season was underway. Musah Muhammed and Clinton Duodu have returned to team training, while Kamil Fidan and Süleyman Özdamar remain injured. Aaron Appindangoye was hurt on duty with Gabon, and Murat Paluli has suffered a recurrence of his injury.

Defender Mert Çelik said the squad had used the break well and wanted to beat Pendikspor. He invited supporters to attend the match and stressed the importance of unity. Sivasspor continued preparations with conditioning, passing and tactical exercises, followed by a practice game.

Key Takeaways

• Taşdemir urged a cleaner football environment and greater trust in Turkey.
• He acknowledged Sivasspor’s disappointing results over the first eight league games.
• Musah Muhammed and Clinton Duodu have resumed team training before the Pendikspor match.