EB/Streymur v man city
By David McDonnell 2/07/2008
Mark Hughes was last night warned his reign as Manchester City boss will start in humiliating failure - at the hands of an unknown team from the Faroe Islands.
Hughes will begin his City reign with a UEFA Cup qualifier against EB/Streymur in the remote village of Streymnes, which has a population of 400 and where whale-meat, blubber and puffin are local delicacies.
Despite City's status as favourites for the two-leg first-round qualifier in one of football's most remote outposts, Streymur chairman Roland Hojsted warned Hughes and his players to prepare for a tough time.
He said: "What can Manchester City expect? They can expect to lose. Manchester City were our No.1 choice, there's no doubt about that.
"We were all excited about the draw beforehand and that's only increased now we know Manchester City will be our opponents."
Having already hosted Scotland, France and Italy in the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, the Faroes are unlikely to be unprepared for the anticipated influx of City fans.
The July 17 game will be held in either Toftir or Torshavn, ensuring a 6,000-capacity stadium. Hojsted said: "It will be a fantastic occasion and I can guarantee the City fans a superb time in the Faroes."
The return leg will be held at Barnsley's Oakwell ground, because the pitch at the City of Manchester Stadium has recently been relaid and will not be ready in time.
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