Mertesacker: Sampdoria draw a tough task

Werder Bremen defender Per Mertesacker admits his side will have to be at their very best to reach the group stages of the Champions League after being drawn against Sampdoria in the final qualifying round.

Bremen play host to the Blucerchiati in the first leg at the Weser Stadion on August 17 or 18 before travelling to Genoa for the decisive return leg a week later, and Mertesacker recognises the challenge the Serie A side will pose.