McClaren aims for response

Posted Thursday, November 05, 2009 by PA

Steve McClaren will aim to get FC Twente's Europa League campaign back on track when they get the chance to avenge the recent 2-0 defeat by FC Sheriff.

McClaren's side, currently flying high domestically in the Eredivisie, suffered a surprising 2-0 defeat in hostile conditions in Moldova to leave them third in Group H.

Twente began their campaign strongly with a superb 2-1 win away to Turkish giants Fenerbahce - who currently lead the group - and followed it with a draw at home to Steaua Bucharest.

However, they were undone in Tiraspol two weeks ago a goal in each half by Benjamin Balima and Jymmy Franca - the latter in added time - sent them back to Holland empty-handed, while Sheriff moved above Twente into second on goal difference.

Twente, however, have lost just one of their last seven European games at home in Enschede while Sheriff's away record of one win in their last seven on the road does not augur well for the visitors.

Twente go into the match two points clear at the top of the Eredivisie after their 2-1 win over Roda JC at the weekend but McClaren admits he is somewhat concerned about his side's failure to kill off games.

Twente were cruising and 2-0 up at half-time but conceded after the break to endure a nervy finish.

And McClaren said: "We tried to get the third goal and finish off the game but couldn't, we lost control of the game and had to just survive."

McClaren recently extended his deal in Enschede until the end of next season after impressing in Holland following his miserable stint as England national team manager.

And he believes Twente is the perfect club for him to fulfil his ambitions.

"FC Twente are an ambitious side and have already shown their ambitions this season," said the former Middlesbrough boss.

"It is a joy to be working at this club which has good management, staff and players and wants to achieve something."

Twente have concerns about the fitness of Australia international David Carney, who was a late substitute at the weekend, while Sheriff are hopeful first-leg goalscorer Balima will be available.