Ketsbaia warns against complacency

Georgia coach Temuri Ketsbaia recalled the 2-0 defeat to Malta in a friendly last year to warn his players against complacency.

“Malta beat us 2-0 last year, so we can’t go into this match with a superiority complex,” Ketsbaia said.

“The players are fully concentrated on this game. We have seen the DVDs of Malta’s opening qualifiers against Israel and Latvia. There are no favourites in this game. Not taking Malta seriously would be a very big mistake on our part.

“Our motivation to beat Malta is high as we want to end our long wait for a home victory.”

Ketsbaia has promoted three U-21 players, namely Nika Kvekveskiri, Murtaz Daushvili and Irakli Klimiashvili, to his squad for the clash against Malta tonight and Tuesday’s qualifier away to Latvia.

Ucha Lobzhanidze will be serving a suspension today.

The Georgia coach is not planning to make significant changes to his team.

“The backbone of the team will stay intact,” Ketsbaia said.

“It makes no sense to effect drastic changes to the squad because we have the best players available. If we spot other players who are doing well for their clubs, we will invite them to join us.

“Most of the members in our squad play outside the country but those players who impress for local clubs will also get their chance.”