Oliver Glasner on...
...the DFB Cup quarter-final: “Cup quarter-final, full house – there has to be a winner! We have qualities that won’t make it easy for Union, and vice versa. I expect a fiery, intense game. We’re looking forward to it.”
…team news: “Tuta is back after suspension, Lenz isn’t fit yet. Smolcic had his operation today, so best wishes to him! Aside from that, Jesper Lindström is still out. The team are making a very good impression. Junior Dina Ebimbe is making good progress after his serious injury and becoming more and more steady. I’m pleased he’s an option for us again.”
...form: “The boys are always eager – I don’t know if it’s even possible to have more adrenaline. They’re brimming with energy and passion. You can’t fault them for that, and you see it too. Of course everyone’s hoping for this turning point as things often haven’t gone our way in recent months. We can’t be pleased with recent results but I pay more attention to the performance trend overall. We’re investing a lot and remain positive. Every match is defined by efficiency. That was the case in the league against Union and will be the case again tomorrow. We’ll find our chances like last time – now it’s about converting them.”
If Rafa carries on the way he is, the goals will come back.
Head coach Oliver Glasner
…opponents 1. FC Union Berlin: “Union are a side who have a clear structure. They’re very solid defensively, as a rule they close the spaces and hit on the counter. They also use their physical presence and have very energetic midfielders. On top of that, their set-pieces are a great weapon. Their organisation combined with playing to their strengths is what makes them so successful.”
…Rafael Borré: “I’ve spoken with him. His game against Bochum looked unfortunate, but overall he put in an excellent performance. I have great respect for his performance. If Rafa carries on the way he is, the goals will come back.”
…Ansgar Knauff: “I’ve spoken with Ansgar Knauff, I’m constantly in dialogue with my players. He had two international matches in his legs, whereas Aurélio Buta was in the groove. We know Ansgar’s qualities. Like every player, he has our total support and full faith.”
... Aurélio Buta: “I’m astonished at how he’s come back from a long injury lay-off. He has very good timing in his forward runs and constantly manages to get in behind the defence. Now he needs to make the right decision more often in these situations, which we talk to him about.”
