Ukraine ready for a ‘tornado’ says Blokhin

Ukraine manager Oleh Blokhin believes the co-hosts will have to cope with a “tornado” of interest if they are to start Euro 2012 with a win against Sweden.

The Zhovto-Blakytni welcome Erik Hamren’s side to the Olimpiysky Stadium in Kiev today as they kick off their Group D campaign.

Many have already written off Ukraine’s chances of reaching the knockout stage, with France and England to follow. Blokhin knows his side face a tough challenge and hopes his players, especially the younger members of the squad, rise to the occasion.

“These guys have to face up to it, whether they like it or not,” he said. “I said back in 2010 that it was time to revamp the national team.

“They may not win anything, but they’re going to gain precious experience for the future, although of course I hope we go a long way in the competition.

“Hosting the tournament is like a tornado that could throw us in an unknown direction. When I took over I set the goal to win the tournament since we are the hosts.

“So let’s split the winners’ medal between Ukraine and Poland.”

Ukraine head into the match on the back of friendly defeats to Austria and Turkey, a far cry from the success they enjoyed six years ago when they reached the World Cup quarter-finals.

There are only eight survivors from the team that played at their only previous final tournament, including the likes of Anatoliy Tymoshchuk, Andriy Voronin and Andriy Shevchenko.

The latter is still the star name in the Ukrainian team, but Blokhin insists the 35-year-old carries no extra burden.

“Expectations here are the same for everybody,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter if you are Shevchenko, Oleh Gusev, as long as you are part of the team.

“We expect everyone to do their best, Shevchenko included.”

Much of Ukraine’s hope of a good start to the championship will rest on their ability to stifle Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The AC Milan striker has been a mainstay in the Swedish side for more than a decade and his service has been rewarded with the captaincy.

“I’m very proud, to experience a finals as team captain, it doesn’t get any bigger than that.

“It is also a big responsibility to lead the team in the direction you want. It’s important to start well. I remember other final rounds where we did that, and we were able to just hold on during the following matches.

“And when we start off well, we become more self-confident.”

Ibrahimovic also believes the fans will play an important role, with 12,000 expected at the game and around 18,000 due at the England match on June 19.

“I have always said that 50% of football is about the spectators and the atmosphere,” he added. “How the fans react and chant, that’s what gives you adrenaline and motivation. When things are hard on the pitch, the fans’ support can lift you 10 to 20%.”