DEN ‘N DUSTED
Zanka sets sights on Russia
HUDDERSFIELD defender Mathias Zanka is desperate to avoid an Irish double date as he chases his World Cup dream.
The centre-back believes that a good season with the Terriers could propel him into Denmark’s starting line-up in Russia next summer.
But first Age Hareide’s side face a two-legged play-off in November, when they could face Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.
Zanka hopes Denmark dodge both in Tuesday’s draw, fearing it would be too much like the rough and tumble of a highintensity Premier League game.
Fancy
He said: “If I had to choose, it would probably be Greece.
“If we are lucky enough to be at home for the second game, having got a good result away, then coming to Denmark will not be easy for them.
“We would fancy our chances in Copenhagen on a November night, and they don’t have big names like they used to have.
“Our coach wouldn’t mind playing either of the Irish teams. He has come out and said that. He thinks that is going to suit us really well.
“But it would be a very physical game against either of those teams and tight. I ® don’t think it would be open. I don’t know if you need that in two play-off games.”
The 27-year-old was on the bench last Sunday when Denmark sealed their play-off spot with a 1-1 draw against Romania, and is looking to use his club form to earn a regular starting spot.
He has settled quickly following his summer move from FC Copenhagen, and will bid to shut out struggling Swansea at the Liberty Stadium today.
He took tips on how to adjust to English football from national team boss Hareide, who played for Manchester City and Norwich.
Zanka said: “He spoke about his time at Manchester City. But he also said things had changed a lot, so he didn’t want to give many pointers.
“But he did talk about the culture and how everything was bigger and different.”
Huddersfield conceded just three goals in their opening six league games, but were given a reality check when Tottenham thumped them 4-0 two weeks ago.
Zanka added: “We met a top class-team that day, one of the best in the Premier League.
“We got a little taste of the fact that if you make mistakes against these boys, they’ll punish you.”