Zenit ready to join élite, says Tymoshchuk

FC Zenit St. Petersburg captain Anatoliy Tymoshchuk insists his side will not be overawed by the occasion when the Russian champions make their UEFA Champions League debut at Group H rivals Juventus on Wednesday.

'Big-game players'
Zenit followed up their UEFA Cup triumph in May by defeating Manchester United FC in the UEFA Super Cup last month – evidence, says Tymoshchuk, that Zenit are ready for this level of competition. "We've won a lot of big games, especially over the last two years, so we've learned to channel our emotions when we play," he explained. "It's a big game for us but controlling the emotion of the occasion won't be a problem. We've proved in the past we have a big-game temperament. There's no question this is a big game for Zenit as its our first match at this level, but beating sides like Manchester United gives us great belief and the confidence to play well against Juventus."

'High standard'
The Ukrainian international, once a transfer target of the Turin club, made 15 UEFA Champions League appearances for FC Shakhtar Donetsk before moving to Russia's Premier-Liga in 2007. His experience may prove decisive as Zenit step out on to Europe's élite stage. "I've already shown what I can do on the pitch," said the 29-year-old anchorman, who has 75 UEFA club competition matches to his name. "I've played to a high standard for a number of years and I don't need to prove anything to anyone."

'Massive step'
Another player with nothing to prove is Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero, with the Italy forward relishing the prospect of returning to the UEFA Champions League after a two-year absence. "It's a great feeling to be back in the Champions League," said Del Piero, 33, who will be making his 80th outing in the blue-riband event. "It's the culmination of two years' hard work and it's a massive step for us."

'Desire'
The hard part, however, may only just be starting for the Bianconeri. "Zenit will be tough opponents," Del Piero added. "I saw them in the UEFA Cup and the Super Cup, and I also watched Russia play very impressively with a number of Zenit players in their side at EURO 2008. Russian football is on the up and Zenit have proved as much by winning those trophies, but now we're back we want to give a good account of ourselves. At this level you have to be ready for everything because the opposition are so good. You have to have heart for the fight, intelligence, motivation and desire, and we'll need all those qualities against Zenit."