Lukas Podolski believes 1.FC Koln should look to back their strengths against an under pressure Arsenal team tonight at the Emirates.
The Bundesliga outfit are massive underdogs going into the Europa League opening group matchday at the Emirates and are not expected to pose much threat to Arsenal at home.
The Gunners are expected to beat Koln despite the chances of a second string line up taking the pitch at the Emirates, but Podolski, who played for both clubs, feels it might not be as straightforward for Arsenal as it seems.
The former Gunner believes after a poor start to the season in the league, Arsenal are under pressure as their priority remain returning to the summit of the Premier League as soon possible.
And he feels if Koln decide to play to their strengths there is no reason why they can’t create problems for Arsenal tonight at the Emirates.
relatedNewsStory
Podolski told German magazine SportBild: “The pressure on the team is already enormous after a poor start to the league.
“Arsenal want to be champions again and it’s a priority.”
Reflecting on Koln, the former Gunner said: “The team have grown together for years.
“They will be looking to back their strengths against Arsenal that made Koln look god in the Bundesliga against a top team such as Bayern – compact with quick passing and fast wingers.”
Koln have taken 20,000 fans to London for the game.
