PSG - match preview

Rutten expects a tight game against PSG

An attractive game against famous opposition, and in footballing terms a hard nut to crack. This is how Schalke view their opening game in the UEFA Cup group stage against Paris Saint-Germain at the VELTINS Arena on Thursday (kick-off: 1815 CET).

The Royal Blues have done their homework on the side currently sitting in ninth place in Ligue 1. Fred Rutten and his coaching staff have seen three games on DVD, while Schalke scouts have been to see PSG play in France. Rutten therefore knows all about Thursday's opposition.  "PSG are a very experienced, well organised team who are sure to climb up the French league table. And they are capable of causing us a few problems. Mateja Kezman, who I worked with at PSV Eindhoven, for example, is a good player and always good for a goal in games like these." The conclusion, then, is an obvious one: "We can't afford to lose our shape", the 45-year-old said.

The tactical situation going into the game is equally clear. "It won't be an open game", Rutten explained. "No one wants to lose the opening fixture in a group stage - though we want to win it. But PSG are a team who are always up for games like this one."

From a selection point of view Schalke look certain to be able to call upon Rafinha, who sat out training for a day after picking up a slight injury on Tuesday. The Brazil full-back will take part in the final training session before the game, however, as will Mladen Krstajic, who had been sidelined after taking a blow to the knee in Hamburg. The outlook is not so good for Christian Pander, though. "He hasn't trained yet so it's looking a bit tight for tomorrow", said Rutten. Definitely ruled out are Gustavo Varela and Carlos Grossmüller, who have been suspended for disciplinary reasons.

As for PSG, Rutten was asked by a French journalist whether he knew that Paul Le Guen intended to rotate his team with a view to the forthcoming league game at Olympique Marseille and would be leaving out Claude Makelele and Stephane Sessegnon, while Jerome Rothen would only be on the bench. "PSG have changed their starting line-up regularly this season", he replied, "but we weren't aware of that. Thanks a lot!"