Kick-off is set for 17:45 (UK) at Stockholm’s Tele2 Arena, with the Blues able to secure qualification from Group D should we avoid defeat.
Hammarby’s vocal away support caught the eye in last week’s 2-0 win at the Joie Stadium, and a bumper crowd of over 20,000 is expected on Thursday evening.
But Taylor is confident his players are up to the test and are also braced for the hosts’ organised and physical style.
He said: “[They’re a] Big, physical, strong team which we’re aware of. Physically they are aggressive in what they do with and without the ball.
HOW TO FOLLOW HAMMARBY v CITY ON THE APP
“Set plays, you have to be switched on. They’re aggressive when they come out and press against us.
“We worked hard on that in the last few days and were ready for it.
“They don’t try to hide how they play. Their goalkeeper was comfortable playing long on most occasions and they battled for second balls.
“Winning the first is difficult, winning the second is important. We’ve given away size in the middle areas, but we’re not too bothered about that.
“The ball won’t stay in the air forever. On a 4G pitch, it can be difficult, and it moves fast.
CITY+ | SUBSCRIBE TO ACCESS EXCLUSIVE CONTENT
“On that surface if there’s residue, sometimes the ball can be past you before you know it.
“I was able to watch their game against St. Polten, the previous game they played [at home].
“The atmosphere then was really good as well, they [the fans] get right behind the team and are cheering constantly all the time.
“It’s something we experienced on a small scale at the Joie Stadium in the original game.”
Hear Gareth’s thoughts in full via the video above...
