ADO defender Hokke relieved after turbulent week: 'I spoke with my heart'

ADO defender Hokke relieved after turbulent week following manager Peter's sacking; the 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam lifted spirits.

Milan Hokke was a relieved man on Saturday evening after ADO Den Haag's 3-1 victory over Sparta Rotterdam, following a turbulent week that saw manager Robin Peter sacked.

Hokke had given an explosive interview to Omroep West after the 1-0 defeat to PEC Zwolle, criticizing the club's approach to their sporting crisis and lamenting a lack of leadership in the squad. He acknowledged the comments were made emotionally and perhaps should have stayed within the group rather than going public, but said they had the desired effect.

"I spoke with my heart and was full of emotion. Anger, disappointment. In myself, in everyone around me," he explained.

Peter's dismissal hit Hokke hard—the defender credited the manager with enabling his breakthrough and said they shared a special bond. But he accepted the reality of football's harshness. Interim coach Levi Schwiebbe has taken over and made tactical adjustments, asking players to work harder and defend with more intensity.

Hokke praised Schwiebbe's passion and trust, and hopes he remains in the role permanently. "Regardless of who comes, we take this good feeling with us," Hokke said.