Ronald Koeman: 'FC Midtjylland tougher than Vitesse'

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has predicted that his side will experience more problems against FC Midtjylland than they did against previous opponents Vitesse.

The Saints beat Vitesse 5-0 on aggregate to reach the Europa League playoffs, but Koeman has insisted that the Danish outfit shouldn't be taken lightly ahead of Thursday's first leg at St Mary's.

The 52-year-old told reporters: "They have played Champions League qualification games.

"I have mentioned already the draw is more difficult than Vitesse because they are more physical and don't play so open as a Dutch team does. That makes it difficult."

The winner of the two-legged tie will reach the group stages of the competition for the first time.