Italiano: We Feel Orkun's Absence Greatly

Besiktas head coach Vincenzo Italiano spoke ahead of tonight's Europa League match against English side Crystal Palace. Reminding that Palace won the Conference League last year, Italiano said the opponent is very strong. Noting that they need to take points from this match to reach the top 8, the coach said he expects performances from everyone.

Speaking about Orkun Kokcu, who is out of the squad with an injury, Italiano said the player is very important for the team and that his absence is felt greatly. He said he talks to Kokcu every day, that his condition is improving, and that he hopes he returns quickly. About Poku, he said: "He is a part of our project. He could become one of the leading players in the future."

Midfielder Wilfred Ndidi also said they want to advance from the group, and that to do so they need to win all their matches. Ndidi noted that they took the necessary lessons from the Trabzonspor match.

It was recalled that Italiano changed 5 players in the Trabzonspor match compared to the Hoffenheim game. Rotation is expected again tonight. In defense, Ouattara and Umit Akdag are planned to start, while Djalo is also seen as a candidate. In midfield, Ndidi is expected to replace Salih Ozcan, and Ilhan Fakili is expected to play on the right wing. It was reported that up front, Oh could get a chance in place of Vlahovic. The final squad will be decided at the meeting to be held at noon.