Polish coach reveals how Jock Stein helped shape his career

The Pole travelled to Glasgow in 1970 for a three-day stay at Parkhead working alongside Stein when he had Celtic competing at the highest level in Europe. And Lenczyk, whose side face Dundee United tonight, admits it is an experience he has found invaluable.

The 68-year-old counts his victory over the Hoops with Wisla Krakow six years later in 1976 as one of the highlights of his career. He said: "Jock Stein is a football legend and it was pleasure to spend some time with him. I came to Scotland as a young coach for three days to work with him and it was a fantastic experience.

"I remember it very well and it has made a big impact on my career. I came back a few years later to beat Celtic in Europe, which was one of my best experiences. Mr Stein was someone I always respected in football."

Lenczyk also revealed that Slask had to endure an eight-hour journey to Scotland via Dusseldorf, but insists he won't blame the travelling if his team lose. He also rejected suggestions by United manager Peter Houston after last week's first leg in Poland that his side would prefer playing at home with the more familiar Mitre balls compared to the Pumas the Poles use.

Slask are sweating over the fitness of star striker Cristian Diaz, who is doubtful, meaning Dutchman Johan Voskamp, who scored in the first leg, is likely to start.