Wilfred Ndidi has expressed confidence that Beşiktaş can maintain their unbeaten start to the UEFA Europa League when they host English Premier League side Crystal Palace on Thursday night.

The Nigeria international said the Turkish club were working hard and prepared for the challenge of facing a Palace side accustomed to the pace and intensity of English football.

Beşiktaş have made an impressive start to their European campaign, opening with a 4-1 home victory over Marseille before securing a 3-2 away win against Bundesliga outfit TSG Hoffenheim.

Ndidi believes the team’s performances against quality opposition have equipped them for another demanding encounter at the Tüpraş Stadium.

Speaking at Wednesday’s pre-match press conference, the midfielder stressed the importance of collective effort and home advantage.

“We are a team and we will be playing at home. We are working very hard,” Ndidi said.

“We will be playing against a good team. Teams coming from England are used to high tempo and intensity. We have played and are playing against good teams. So we are ready.”

Beşiktaş will be looking to extend their winning run and strengthen their position in the league phase when they welcome the Premier League visitors.

The Turkish side are currently fourth in the Europa League standings, while Crystal Palace occupy 15th position, adding further importance to Thursday’s encounter as both teams seek to improve their standings.

Ndidi’s experience in English football could also prove valuable as Beşiktaş prepare to contain Palace’s intensity and secure another important European result.