Erm ahead of European Championships: I am happy with my form and intend to show everything I'm capable of

Two years ago in Rome, Johannes Erm won the European decathlon title. This year, due to injuries, he has not yet competed, but ahead of the European Championships, which start next week in Birmingham, the athlete remains optimistic.

"There is one week left until the competition, and I am pleased with my form. Not everything is the way I would like, but I think there is potential. I cannot say what the result will be, but I am positive," Erm told ERR.

Due to a hamstring injury, Erm had to miss the winter season, and this year he has not yet participated in any competition. His last appearance was at the Estonian Championships, where he cleared 1.95 meters in the high jump and put the shot 13.87 meters.

Could the training missed due to various health issues affect his performance at the European Championships? "I have years of experience, I have competed many times in all these disciplines. The problem was rather that the injury was related to a nerve. Now the injury itself is gone, but painful sensations may remain," he noted. "I think I will just go out and try to show everything I am capable of. I know that I may be slightly short of maximum speed, but I believe I can realize all my capabilities."

What level can be expected in the decathlon at the current European Championships? "I cannot comment, I don't follow my opponents too closely. But I think, since this is not an Olympic year, the results will not be as high as two years ago," Erm replied.

The decathlon competition in Birmingham will take place on August 12 and 13. In addition to the defending champion Erm, Estonia will be represented by Karel Tilga, Rasmus Roosleht, and Risto Lillemets. The European Athletics Championships will be held in Birmingham from August 10 to 16.