Former Milan defender Thomas Helveg expects a tough but winnable game for Lazio in their upcoming Europa League clash against FC Midtjylland.
The Biancocelesti impressed in their European opener last week, securing an exciting 4-2 win over Eredivisie outfit Feyenoord. Maurizio Sarri’s side will be hoping to follow that up with another three points in Denmark later this week, but Midtjylland won’t go down easy as they look for redemption following a 1-0 loss to Sturm Graz.
Speaking to Radiosei (via LazioNews24), Helveg first commented on his lasting affection for Italy and Serie A.
I miss Italy, but not only the league, I miss Italy as a country. I had a great time both in Friuli and Milan.
I’m following Serie A, in Denmark some matches are broadcast live, but some escape me. I follow Milan when I can.
The former Milan defender touched on some of the qualities of the Danish Superliga.
The Danish league has had an unusual start because the big teams like Copenhagen and Midtjylland are struggling. The season is still long and things can change.
Midtjylland have changed their coach, now they have Capellas who practices an offensive game, he wants to defend forward and not sit back and stay compact. Before him the team covered themselves well and often broke on the counter-attack.
In Europe, the team disappointed in the game against Sturm Graz and now they want to make up for it, despite the fact that the start of the season was also not the best.
Technically the team isn’t bad, but at the moment they’re not running at their best. Last season, however, they often scored in extra time, so it’s a sign that they never give up.
He spoke about what Lazio should expect when travelling to the MCH Arena in Herning.
Lazio will arrive in Denmark and will play in a stadium that isn’t the biggest, I don’t remember if it can hold 10 or 15,000 fans.
However, it’ll be full and there’ll be a warm atmosphere, but nothing like the Stadio Olimpico.
Helveg highlighted some of the Danish side’s best players and ones to keep an eye on.
Pione Sisto is a strange guy to understand, he can be decisive or invisible, he’s quick, technical, in a one-on-one he can be dangerous.
Dreyer had an experience in Russia, then returned to his homeland. He has a good shot and from the distance he can do damage.
He underlined the importance of the Biancocelesti playing their own game in Denmark.
Lazio must play their game and obviously Sarri knows the opponent they’re facing. I think the Biancocelesti must play as they know best because they are definitely superior to Midtjylland.
Finally, Helveg gave his thoughts on Midtjylland as a whole and their recent successes.
Midtjylland won the national cup last year and have been in the top five in Denmark for the last five to eight years.
Initially the club’s policy was to sell the strongest youngsters and start a new cycle, but in recent years they have kept the best and settled in the upper parts of the league.
