Samsunspor head coach Torsten Fink has warned his players about Mohamed Salah’s attacking threat ahead of Saturday’s Turkish Super Lig clash against Trabzonspor.
Salah has reportedly scored seven league goals this season, including a hat-trick against Galatasaray in his most recent outing, making him a major concern for Samsunspor as they prepare to host their rivals in the seventh round.
Speaking to Turkish network 61saat, Fink acknowledged Trabzonspor’s attacking quality and said Salah’s presence had strengthened their offensive options.
“Trabzonspor is very strong, especially in the first 15 minutes. They have players with great strength. They have succeeded in enhancing their attacking capabilities even more, especially after signing Mohamed Salah,” he said.
The Samsunspor manager particularly highlighted the forward’s ability to punish opponents on the counter-attack, while warning that Trabzonspor could also cause problems when controlling possession.
“Mohamed Salah is a player who can score many goals, and he is highly effective in counter-attacks,” Fink said.
“But it must be taken into account that Trabzonspor’s danger is not limited to counter-attacks only, but also to periods of ball possession if we give them enough space and time.”
Fink urges early concentration
Fink stressed that his players must remain focused from the opening whistle and use their home support to compete with Trabzonspor.
“We have to be fully focused from the first minute. We have to prove ourselves to them and show that we have good players and great fans,” he said.
“We have confidence in ourselves and we have analysed the opponent well. Their marketing value is higher than our squad, but derby matches have a special character and dynamics.”
Despite recognising the visitors’ quality, Fink believes Samsunspor can take advantage of Trabzonspor’s struggles away from home.
He noted that their opponents were yet to register an away victory this season and urged his team to make the most of playing on home soil.
“Trabzonspor have not achieved any away wins so far. We must take advantage of that to our advantage in order to win on our home ground,” he added.
Fink also acknowledged that refereeing decisions could influence the outcome but insisted his players must concentrate on their own performance.
