Stanimir Stoilov is facing his first competitve game as Bulgaria manager without the talents of Dimitar Berbatov. He took the post after they drew the first three games of World Cup qualifiers. Stoilov said he will be replaced by Valeri Domovchiyski of Hertha Berlin. Stilian Petrov becomes captain in place of the Manchester United striker.
He said on www.fai.ie
" We've lost our most important players, but this is the reality. We can't change it and we must do everything possible to win against Ireland."
Bulgaria are seven points behind joint leaders Italy and Ireland in Group 8 of the qualifying series but they have played just three matches while the two leaders have four games behind them.
"We know it's an extremely important match for us, Ireland are a well organised team and I want to see us being brave in attack."
He continued
"I've done the calculations" he said, "and I know we can still qualify even if we lose in Ireland. But this is a worst scenario and I am not considering such an outcome."
Bulgaria are 7 popints adrift of Ireland and face an uphill struggle if they lose in Croke Park on Saturday but with Manchester City player Martin Petrov available and young striker Ivelin Popov all is not lost. He has scored three goals in his eight international appearances.