Liedson's Final Pledge To Fans

Mar 30 2008 By Gavin Berry In Lisbon

SAMBA star Liedson is desperate to reach the UEFA Cup final to APOLOGISE to fans after Sporting were knocked out of the Champions League.

The Portuguese side crashed out at the group stages of the premier competition, finishing third behind Manchester United and Roma.

The Brazilian said: "After our elimination the squad promised the fans we would fight to reach the UEFA Cup final - and we don't want to fail against Rangers.

"We must show a winning mentality and put in 100 per cent effort over two legs. Gers will be harder than Bolton, our opponents in the last round, but playing away in the first leg is an advantage we must exploit.

"Our teams are on a similar level having played in the Champions League and finishing third in our respective groups.

"I'm looking forward to Thursday and not worried about the atmosphere at Ibrox. A Brazilian is always prepared for anything and rises to the occasion."

South American team-mate Leandro Grimi reckons Gers were the plum tie in the quarter finals - and now Sporting must make the most of the opportunity.

The Argentinian, on loan from AC Milan, said: "We wanted to avoid Bayern Munich so that was good.

"We showed in the last round, by knocking out Bolton, we can do well against British opposition.

"We are developing an excellent season in Europe and want to reach the final.

"It will be hard at Ibrox but we must stay calm, show patience and not be nervous. Rangers are physical but I believe we can score in Glasgow."