Trabzonspor coach Abdullah Avci is fired up to face Roma in the UEFA Europa Conference League. ‘It’s a very important club that is recognised world-wide.’
The first leg of the Europa Conference League play-off is tomorrow in Turkey at 18.30 UK time, with the decider at the Olimpico next Thursday.
“We are happy to be hosting a very important club that is recognised world-wide,” coach Avci said during his press conference.
“Roma have players of great talent. The participation of our fans will be a positive influence, as we need their support in the stadium.”
Jose Mourinho is having his first competitive match on the Giallorossi bench and he’ll do it in the fiery atmosphere of the Senol Gunes stadium in Trabzon.
“Whatever the result tomorrow, we are aware that we are representing Trabzonspor. I hope it’s a good start and we have prepared tactical plans for every opponent.
“Roma are experienced, they have played in Europe for many years, but Trabzonspor will continue to play with patience in order to get the win.”
There are several former Serie A players in the Turkish side, including ex-Napoli icon Marek Hamsik and past Roma men Gervinho and Bruno Peres.
Andreas Cornelius made the transfer from Parma late in the summer and he is in doubt tomorrow.
“We had the data from the Danish national team on Cornelius and will decide the line-up after the training session,” added former Besiktas boss Avci.