Viktoria Plzen defender Lukas Hejda is expecting a tough test against Fiorentina in their Europa Conference League quarter-final first leg on Thursday evening, and has explained that La Viola’s strength in possession is something for the Czech side to be wary of heading into the game.
Hejda was on media duty on Wednesday and took part in his team’s customary pre-match press conference, reported via TMW.
“We’re feeling good, it’s an historic match for us and we can’t wait to play it. Everyone has been stopping me and wishing me well for tomorrow’s game, we know the importance of it,” Hajda told the press.
“We have studied them a lot. We have a difficult match ahead of us because they are very good at keeping hold of the ball. It won’t be an easy job for us.”
Hejda was asked what he knew about Fiorentina’s only Czech representative, Antonin Barak, who will be returning to his home nation for Thursday’s clash.
“I don’t have that much experience alongside Barak. I played with him when he was in Pibriam, but we know what sort of player he is and we know we have to keep an eye on him.”
Hejda also fielded questions on the ‘big occasion’ of facing Italian teams in Europe.
He made sure to mention his side’s 3-0 victory over Napoli in the Europa League round of 32 during the 2012-13 season and hopes that Viktoria will be able to replicate their strong performance at home again on Thursday.
“I remember lots of important matches against Italian sides. I also have to mention the victory against Napoli. Here at home, we have always played very strongly.”
Kick-off between Viktoria Plzen and Fiorentina is scheduled for 17.45 BST on Thursday evening.