Metalist’s Edmar expects last 16 clash

Metalist Kharkiv midfielder Edmar is expects tomorrow’s Europa League last 16 clash with Olympiacos to be an “intriguing contest”.

The Ukrainian outfit welcome the Greek champions to Metalist Stadium tomorrow for the first leg of their tie boasting the most prolific scoring record in the competition, having netted 23 goals since the start of the group stage.

Olympiacos, by comparison, have been more measured, leading Edmar to predict an interesting encounter awaits.

“We score a lot, they concede rarely, so it will be an intriguing contest,” the 31-year-old told www.uefa.com.

“Olympiacos are a quality side but we have faith in ourselves, and remember that we defeated them not so long ago.

“Olympiacos are not a negative team. I think the game will be open and, without a doubt, very interesting.

“They have a Spanish coach (Ernesto Valverde) and lots of players who like to play a passing game and go forward in numbers.

“I guess we’ll have some space for our attacks and counter-attacks.”

Metalist come into the match off the back of a 1-0 win against FC Obolon Kyiv after the Ukrainian Premier-Liha season resumed at the weekend.

It took 95 minutes to overcome them, but Edmar – who sat out the home win – does not see any reason for a major tactical overhaul.

“The manager Myron Markevich always tells us to play our way,” he said.

“Yes, it’s very important to make adjustments for your opponents, but if you have big goals you need to develop your own style and stick to it.

“We have ours, and yes, sometimes it’s difficult when you meet a team who defend deep, but we showed our mental strength against Obolon and got the points.

“We are getting fitter every day. We can’t keep up the same rhythm as before the break or press as intensely, but we’ll try to compensate for that with motivation and commitment.

“We didn’t set any targets for this competition. We just want to win every game.”

Olympiacos forward Diogo is unlikely to feature in Ukraine due to a virus.

The Brazilian missed training yesterday as did former Manchester United goalkeeper Roy Carroll, who is recovering from a thigh injury.

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