“Summon all our strengths”

Oliver Glasner on ...

…the situation: “A semi-final is great, but obviously we want more and we’ll summon all our strengths. It’s all or nothing – and we’re going to go for all. We have a number of players here who were cup winners in 2018 and Europa League winners in 2022. That leaves an imprint on your heart and makes you hooked.”

…the team news: “It’s looking pretty good with Kolo Muani. Sow will be available. Ndicka has trained without any problems. Lindström has two more sessions in his legs – he’s an important option with his abilities. Philipp Max is not yet an option.”

…Evan Ndicka: “If Evan feels up to it and his performance in training confirms that, then it’s highly likely he’ll start.”

…opponents VfB Stuttgart: “The biggest difference since the change of coach is in the formation, from a 4-3-3 to a flexible 3-4-3. In [Serhou] Guirassy they’ve got a target man up front, with a lot of pace alongside him – Silas, [Tanguy] Coulibaly or [Enzo] Millot can play there. In [Borna] Sosa they’ve got one of the best set-piece takers and crossers in the league on the left, and a very physical player in [Josha] Vagnoman on the right. And at the back they’ve got three real giants in defence. They’re a good side with fighting power and football quality. Their recent results seem to have given them a new spirit and belief.”

…the approach: “It’s about bringing to the surface the potential that lies in every single player. We don’t have to change anything fundamental about our playing system, but we haven’t been able to produce it consistently lately. I’m firmly convinced that a positive mood is the basis for being able to fulfil potential. I always try to look into the players’ heads. I talk to them and observe them. The task is to tap into everyone’s potential, try to improve it and then put everything together so that it clicks. And that’s what we have to do on the pitch in Stuttgart.”