“We’re preparing very well”

Timmy, how’s pre-season going?
“I’ve already been through several pre-seasons and got plenty of kilometres on the clock (laughs). Doing pre-season at home on this occasion allows you to go home between sessions, sleep at home in your own bed and see your family. That’s obviously a big advantage.”

You’re playing against 1860 Munich in the first round proper of the DFB Cup next week. How do you assess your opponents and the challenge facing you?
“You always know what to expect in the cup. First-round games against smaller opponents are always difficult. It’ll definitely be a hard-fought game. We need to prepare just like we would for a Bundesliga game and obviously want to reach the next round. Naturally we want to go as far as possible in the cup again this season.”

Do you see it as an advantage that you’re not playing European football this season?
“Every week we’ll have time to prepare as best we can for every game, analyse things in greater depth and we won’t be travelling as much. That’ll allow us to show our true qualities and play at 100 per cent every weekend. We’re preparing very well at the moment. Everyone’s fit and we’ll try to finish in the top half of the table again this season. Of course it’s a shame we’re not involved [in Europe] this year, but we now need to turn our full attention to the DFB Cup and the Bundesliga.”

What are your own objectives for the coming season?
“I’m obviously hoping to be given game-time, but ultimately that decision always rests with the coach. I played a big role last season and scored important goals, which was important for me and the team. The coach knows I’m always there if he needs me – no matter what position.”

What are your aims for the friendly against Mainz?
“It may be just a friendly, but we still want to get the win, play well and boost our confidence ahead of the DFB Cup next week.”