Western Sydney Wanderers boss Markus Babbel relishing first game at Bankwest Stadium against Leeds United
The Wanderers are ready to play their first match at Bankwest Stadium with players and fans looking to usher in a new era of success at the club.
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Markus Babbel says a new home means ‘no more excuses’ for both Wanderers players and supporters as he vows not to park the bus against Leeds United on Saturday night.
The first football match in their new home, a stadium perfectly suited for the round ball game, is a chance to embrace a new era.
The Wanderers boss, who will include several new faces in the clash with Marcelo Bielsa’s men is eager to encourage an entertaining spectacle.
“For us it’s a special situation because it’s the first game at home, in our new home and also against a European side, Leeds United, a big club,” he said.
“It’s fantastic.
“It’s a very difficult game for us because they bring a lot of speed, a lot of quality on the pitch. But also we want to show what we can do. (We’re) definitely not parking a coach in the box so we try to play good football and I hope we can see a good game.”
Babbel, who labelled his Leeds counterpart ‘a legend’, expects all his new recruits to get some game time, with the only doubt goalkeeper Daniel Lopar (illness).
But the likes of Radoslaw Majewski and Pirmin Schwegler should feature against the English side.
There could be more new faces still to come but Babbel only wants those who buy into the Wanderers set up and culture. He wants good characters as much as good players.
“We are still looking for players who can help us,” he said.
And what Babbel also needs are the fans to roar his team on in their new home.
“We need our supporters,” he said. “If you play against a strong side like Leeds then you need help from the stand and I hope the game is sold out. Also for our supporters, it is special to have a home ground now. Before it wasn’t easy (playing elsewhere), not only for us but also to bring atmosphere in the stadium. But now no excuses, also for our supporters.”
Originally published as Western Sydney Wanderers boss Markus Babbel relishing first game at Bankwest Stadium against Leeds United
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