Poland manager Lewessi sets expectations high for International Series
With two more seasons under their belts, can Poland's team kick on?
Poland head into the upcoming International Series with unfinished business.
Last year's Euroregions campaign ended disappointingly following an early defeat to Eurasia and a draw against a lacklustre Scandobaltics side, condemning the side to a group stage exit. For a nation with aspirations of challenging on the international stage, it was an outcome that fell well below the mark.
Since then, manager Lewessi has assembled a squad he feels is capable of putting that right.
His side is build around a core of experience, with Lewessi himself remaining a key figure in the midfield. He comes off of the back of a mixed season with Durham Athletic, with the side performing widely below expected standards and the player now looking for pastures new. He lines up next to fellow club compatriot Parlayhunter, whose composure and work rate has made him one of the league's most dependable midfielders, if he shows up.
Further forward, 3upariu offers a proven goalscoring threat following another fruitful season with a rejuvenated Stocksbridge Town, while defender M_aciej provides valuable experience in the backline whilst looking to make a mark and find himself a new club for next season.
However, what makes this Polish side particularly exciting is the emergence of its next generation.
Stamford duo PERPGAI and Roianheimer both represent the future of Eastern European football. PERPGAI, in particular, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest attacking prospects in the league and is capable of playing a pivotal role in big matches. Meanwhile, Roianheimer continues to develop game by game with his proven defensive pedigree, and both players hope to potentially secure league and cup triumph before jetting off for the International Series.
Further forward, 3upariu offers a proven goalscoring threat following another fruitful season with a rejuvenated Stocksbridge Town, while defender M_aciej provides valuable experience in the backline whilst looking to make a mark and find himself a new club for next season.
However, what makes this Polish side particularly exciting is the emergence of its next generation.
Stamford duo PERPGAI and Roianheimer both represent the future of Eastern European football. PERPGAI, in particular, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest attacking prospects in the league and is capable of playing a pivotal role in big matches. Meanwhile, Roianheimer continues to develop game by game with his proven defensive pedigree, and both players hope to potentially secure league and cup triumph before jetting off for the International Series.
Manager Lewessi has made no secret of his ambitions this summer. Simply reaching the knockout stages will not satisfy him, and he feels they may well have the tools to go all the way. Whether they can turn this promise into silverware remains to be seen, but one thing is certain; they won't be satisfied with another early exit.