Jardim wants strong finish

Leonardo Jardim maintains Olympiacos will be out to finish their Champions League campaign in style when they tackle Arsenal in Athens.

Last Updated: 03/12/12 at 21:18 Post Comment   

Jardim: Preparing for Arsenal clash

Jardim: Preparing for Arsenal clash

The Greek side may be flying high in their domestic league after an unbeaten 13-match start to the new campaign, but they have failed to reach the knockout stages of Europe's top club competition following three defeats.

Jardim, though, insists Olympiacos will be fully focused on delivering a send-off for the vocal home support at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium ahead of the weekend's clash with fierce Athens rivals Panathinaikos.

"We have a couple of aims to fulfil, the first is to be one of the seeded teams in the Europa League draw, and the second target is to perform well to give happiness to our fans," Jardim told a press conference.

"Last year's win over Arsenal here can have no comparisons for tomorrow's game, because there are new individuals coming in.

"What we would just like to do is see this team repeat the same score once again."

Jardim, however, accepts the visit to Panathinaikos is of more importance than Tuesday night's outcome.

He said: "I would like to have victories in both matches but if I have to choose one, then it would be against Panathinaikos."

Jardim feels Olympiacos can head into the Europa League next year confident of making an impact on the latter stages.

"The Europa League will have some very strong teams, especially those like us who did not make it through in the Champions League," he said.

"If we can get into the last 16, then we have every possibility at hand to be one of the teams who will fight for the cup at the end."

Defender Jose Holebas serves a one-game ban after collecting his third yellow card of the group stage on matchday five in the 1-0 defeat at group leaders Schalke, while Northern Ireland keeper Roy Carroll could come into the side to face the Gunners.

Jardim said: "All options are open, what is important is we have all players fit and available, so we will try to find the best solutions to preserve the quality of the squad."

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