Lech Poznań manager Niels Frederiksen has described tonight’s meeting with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park as a landmark occasion for the Polish champions and many of his players.
Frederiksen believes the Europa League fixture will give Lech the chance to test themselves against the greater quality they expect from Premier League opposition. His side have studied Palace closely and prepared a specific tactical plan, but the manager insists they must retain the playing identity that has brought them success.
The Lech boss made it clear that his team will not approach the match simply hoping to limit the damage. While he acknowledged that a draw could prove acceptable, he said the visitors’ intention will be to compete for victory. Lech’s wider ambition is to reach the knockout phase of the Europa League, which Frederiksen recognises as a tougher challenge than last season’s Conference League campaign.
Right-back Joel Pereira also spoke enthusiastically about the opportunity to play at Selhurst Park, describing the prospect as a dream. He expects Lech to make adjustments for the challenge Palace present, while still attempting to play in their usual manner in England and in European competition.
Pereira identified physicality, pace and overall quality as the main differences between Palace and the teams Lech face in Poland’s Ekstraklasa. Those characteristics, he said, are part of what enables Palace to compete in the Premier League.
Frederiksen confirmed that former Hull forward Allahyar Sayyadmanesh is available after resolving an initial visa issue. Midfielder Radek Murawski is fully fit, while winger Daniel Håkans could also feature for part of the match.
