Fink: This isn't David versus Goliath

See what Austria Wien coach Thorsten Fink had to say ahead of Thursday's Europa League game at the Ernst Happel Stadion...

How are you feeling ahead of tomorrow’s game?

“We’re happy to have Roma here. They’re a very good side but we’re ready to go out and win the match – that’s certainly a possibility tomorrow.”

How is the players’ mood?

“They’re all in good spirits and feel confident after the match in Rome. The players want to give 100%.”

Do you think you can reproduce your performance at the Stadio Olimpico?

“The team is definitely on a high, though it’s a difficult match to win. There might be a bit of fear of losing, but I don’t think that should be the case. The lads want to win tomorrow and we know that anything’s possible in football.”

Are Roma the favourites?

“We have great respect for Roma. They’ve dropped down from the Champions League but that doesn’t change anything in our minds – we’ll be approaching the game just the same. That said, Roma are still the favourites. Our result in Italy showed that Austria Wien produced a really professional performance. Both teams need points and both want to win, but a draw would also be a good result for us.”

How do you think Luciano Spalletti will deal with Roma’s defensive crisis?

“They’re having to rejig their defence due to injuries to several players, including [Kostas] Manolas. But it shouldn’t be a massive problem for them to have to replace players, even if they are very important. We want to spring a surprise on them, but Roma are the favourites.”

Is there a big difference between the standard of the two teams?

“It’s really important to say that Austria Wien is in no way a small club. This isn’t David and Goliath. We want to win the match and even when you’re up against the likes of [Daniele] De Rossi, you can still play good football and get the three points.”

Who are you most wary of ahead of tomorrow’s game?

“I won’t pick out one name in particular – all of their players are talented and pacey. [Edin] Dzeko is a great forward and is still one of the best around. It’s a shame [Francesco] Totti won’t be playing, but Dzeko is a very important player for Roma.”

Will you rotate your team for the Roma match?

“No, I won’t be rotating, because we need to be on top of our game against Roma. If necessary, we’ll mix the team up in the league on Saturday.”