Preece planning sharp approach to Europe

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Published: Thursday, 01 May 2014 14:37

ANDY Preece intends to keep his charges in good shape during the summer as he prepares for the Wingmakers' second crack at Europe.

The Airbus director of football, and his assistant Andy Morrison, also intends to leave no stone unturned in a bid to win a Europa League tie.

Still unbeaten on the European stage after two draws against Latvian opponents Ventspils, Preece will have just 10 days to make final preparations once the draw for the first qualifying round is made at Uefa headquarters in Switzerland on June 23.

"It was only match sharpness that stopped us going through last time, so we are going to do things differently," Preece told the Flintshire Chronicle.

"We're getting some games lined-up for the next few weeks and then the lads will have some time off.

"We'll then look to arrange a few games in the run-up, hopefully against some of the Irish sides that are preparing too.

"We're at a disadvantage because a lot of the teams will be 10 or 12 games into their season by the time of the first leg, so they'll be at peak fitness."

Among the sides already in the pot are Norwegian giants Rosenborg, twice Uefa Cup winners IFK Goteburg from Sweden, League of Ireland qualifiers Sligo Rovers and Derry City and Northern Irish outfits Linfield and Crusaders. The third-placed team in the Scottish Premier League will also be involved.

"We'll be as prepared as we possibly can be," Preece added.

"We'll still need a bit of luck in the draw, but if we get that we'll have a really good chance.

"We'll give it our best shot."