Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fernandinho believes the Ukranian side will be in a strong position to challenge Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next week, once they have dealt with domestic matters.
Fernandinho, 27, will be an important player for the Ukranian side in London, but insists that they must first deal with the difficult challenge of Metalurh Zaporizhya at the Donbass Arena on Saturday.
“Despite the fact that Metalurh haven’t won a single league game this season, I am sure that they will set a target of winning against us,” he told the club’s official website.
“Frankly, I don’t expect many goals in this match. I’m convinced that Metalurh will really try to prevent that happening. We’ll see.
“The pressure is okay, both the team and I handle the load well. We’ll be in good shape before taking on Chelsea!”
In contrast with their opponents this weekend, Shakhtar have won their opening 13 league fixtures the 2012-13 campaign, with a current goal difference of 33.
