Semi-final: Sevilla - Schalke Preview
Slomka demands clinical finishing in Sevilla
Schalke head coach Mirko Slomka comes across as self-assured and confident ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Cup semi-final on Thursday. With the right result the Royal Blues could progress to the final for the second time in the club's history. "We're on the verge of going through", said Slomka, "and that's what we're out to do at any price."
Against the side placed sixth in the Spanish Primera Division the Schalke boss is expecting a game on the highest level. "Both teams play very good flowing football. It's very important that we get a goal", he said. "It's also important that we win the decisive challenges. And we've got to be clinical in front of goal."
In Bremen Slomka feels his side showed a marked improvement on previous outings. This has given him confidence for the match in Sevilla. "We played very well and with great commitment. We created lots of chances as well. That's the first step. In Sevilla we want to go a step further and take these chances."
As Sevilla's match against Barcelona last weekend was postponed, the Andalusians have had a longer rest, but according to Slomka this will have no bearing on Thursday's game. "I don't know how they've trained and so I can't say how fresh they are. All I know is that we've got a good rhythm going and are now focusing completely on getting a result."
Five Schalke players go into the game carrying yellow cards. Gerald Asamoah, Hamit Altintop, Christian Poulsen, Darío Rodriguez (all two yellow cards) and Fabian Ernst (four) would be suspended were they to receive another caution. But Slomka doesn't feel his side are at a disadvantage. "Obviously the players are aware that they're carrying yellow cards, but we have to give our all if we want to achieve our goal." A view reinforced by Gerald Asamoah. "I'm at risk myself. But I want to get through to the final and I'll give it all I've got. It'll be shame for me if I get booked, but what's important is getting to the final."
A decision on the starting line-up will not be made until after tomorrow's final training session. With the exception of Dario Rodriguez (calf) the players are all fit and ready. "Darío was unable to train yesterday and on Monday. Tonight will show whether he can play or not. If he can't, Thomas Kläsener will step in."
