Cruyff braced for physical challenge
Satisfied with Valletta experience so far
Jordi Cruyff is bracing himself for a sterner challenge from Keflavik in tonight's Europa League first qualifying round, second leg tie.
"We can take nothing for granted," Cruyff, Valletta's close-season marquee signing, told The Times at Hotel Keflavik, the Maltese team's base in Iceland.
"We must approach this match with the same mentality as we did in the first leg. I expect Keflavik to give us a stronger challenge here.
"They are playing at home and I think the match will be physical. Keflavik will throw everything at us, especially in the first 20 to 30 minutes.
"They will give their all but it's important that we keep the ball as we did in the home match.
"Our 3-0 lead from the first leg gives us a good chance of reaching the second qualifying round but we still have to fight to complete our mission."
Cruyff, the son of legendary Dutch striker Johan Cruyff who had spells with Barcelona and Manchester United in the early years of his career, is pleased with how his experience with Valletta has panned out so far.
"So far so good," the softly-spoken Cruyff said.
"If I was still 20 years old, maybe I'd have gone for higher objectives but I'm past that stage now.
"Now the team is more important. I joined Valletta to play and try to get a clearer picture of what I want to do in the future. It's been an interesting experience so far. The people at Valletta are very friendly.
"From a personal point-of-view, I'm working to improve my physical condition but the season has only just started.
"At the moment, I'm just thinking about helping Valletta reach the second qualifying round of the Europa League as this would represent a step forward for this club and Maltese football.
"I've been genuinely surprised by the passion the Valletta fans have for football and their team.
"Qualification to the second round of the Europa League would be like a bonus for everyone at the club.
"Valletta are making a great effort to raise their level, signing a professional coach and experienced foreign players. Gaining a place in the second round would show that Valletta are on the right track."