Fenerbahçe manager Christoph Daum spoke to reporters in his pre-match press conference at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium on Wednesday afternoon. The German coach stated that his team will be doing their best to beat Sheriff in Thursday night's game and revealed a list of players who would not be available to play. "We will be fielding the best squad in our hands," assured Daum. The Fener skipper was also queried about Roberto Carlos' departure.

Yellow Canaries manager Christoph Daum held a press conference at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium this afternoon, prior to his side's UEFA Europa League fixture against FC Sheriff Tiraspol. The German coach began his words by thanking UEFA for their professional approach in organizing the Europa League. However, Daum commented that the two additional assistant referees, that were tried for the first time in this competition, had not really met his expectations. 

Daum then continued that he was pleased with Fenerbahçe's position and form in the UEFA Europa League and stated that his side will be doing their best to finish off the group stage with a home win. "Collecting as much points as possible is always an advantage for both Fenerbahçe and the nation," added the experienced coach.

"We will be fielding the best squad in our hands," assured Christoph Daum and revealed a list of players who won't be available to play tomorrow night. "Emre and Deivid won't be ready in time for tomorrow. Alex, Cristian and Volkan Demirel are also doubtful for the fixture," revealed the German coach.

"Unfortunately, Volkan Demirel's brother-in-law passed away. His family is grieving, so he might not play," said Daum. "Alex has a muscle injury and Cristian has a slight injury in his wrist," he explained. "The medical team are taking care of both players, but we'll have to decide about their situation tomorrow," stated the Fener manager.

"But the best part is that we will finally be reuniting with our fans," said Daum, adding that they hoped to perform well in front of the home support. Christoph Daum then praised their Moldovian opponents and stated that he expected a tough game on Thursday night.

"Sheriff had caused us a lot of trouble in our first encounter, tomorrow night will also be very difficult. We have to be ready to fight on the pitch for at least 92-93 minutes, until the final whistle blows," explained the coach.

Daum also answered questions about Roberto Carlos' imminent departure and was asked whether the 36-year-old would play tomorrow night. "There is a chance that Roberto Carlos will play, but it's not certain yet. I will make my decision after seeing him in our final practice session," answered the Fener boss.

"Carlos is currently in talks with the club about off-the-field matters, so we want to wait and see the latest developments before deciding," he added. Next, the German coach was asked how Fenerbahçe was planning to fill the soon-to-be vacant foreigner spot. "There will definitely be a new transfer," revealed Daum.

Meanwhile Christoph Daum also mentioned that he hadn't heard anything about the Brazilian defender getting transferred to Corinthians and added that Roberto Carlos had not asked him especially to field him for his last match in tomorrow night's game.

(Photo courtesy of Fenerbahce.org)