Zico expects tougher tests

Brazilian manager Zico says his team Fenerbahce will face more difficult opposition than Newcastle United in the UEFA Cup this season.

Zico, 53, said: "It is a very important game (Against Newcastle), but it is definitely not the most difficult game in the group.

"Every game is difficult. It is an important game for Fenerbahce, but it is not the decisive game in the group.

"You can never predict how games are going to go in the league or in the cup.

"We have not started very well and Newcastle have not started well either. I would have hoped to start a little better, but every game is different."

That said, he knows home advantage will give Newcastle a head start.

He added: "In the UEFA Cup, the home team has always got the advantage and is predicted to win.

"It is a great advantage to play at home, so I would say Newcastle are favourites.

"I do not want to mention any particular player, but Newcastle gave got a great pedigree and great talent in their squad, and I prefer to say the whole team is a threat rather than any individual player.

"The UEFA Cup is not the Champions League. In the Champions League, you have more favourites to win.

"Here, the teams are more equal and every team has got a chance."

He continued: "English football has got the most talented players in the world. I enjoy watching the English league.

"Also, two years ago Liverpool won the Champions League and I know what a threat Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are in that competition.

"I saw England play in the World Cup as well, so I know what a high-quality league it is and what quality players it produces."