“At the service of the team”

Oliver Glasner on …

…his side’s condition: “We managed to train with a bit more intensity than we usually do in periods like this. I’d have expected the lads to be a bit more tired today, 36 hours after coming back from London, but they’re raring to go physically and mentally. We’re feeling good.”

…injuries: “The personnel situation has taken a turn for the worse, unfortunately. Makoto Hasebe has suffered a tear to his medial collateral knee ligament and will be out for the next few weeks. Other than that, the lads who were with us in London are all available. Luca Pellegrini, Aurélio Buta and Ansgar Knauff are still out. Jérome Onguéné and Almamy Toure are still undergoing rehab training – it’s too early for them to make an appearance. I won’t use any players too early so as not to risk fresh injuries.”

…his expectations for Saturday: “We’re facing a team who finished third last season, kept their key players and strengthened over the summer. They have a lot of pace, are very robust in central defence and unbelievably strong in midfield. We have to be prepared for everything and play our own game – be attacking, compact, link up well with the ball and create goalscoring opportunities.”

…opponents Leverkusen: “Bayer 04 played in a 3-4-3 last time out. Before the season started, I said Leverkusen would be Bayern’s main rivals alongside Leipzig as they were able to keep hold of and strengthen their squad. They’re one of the quickest sides in the league.”XY. Patrik Schick was the second-highest scorer last season. I don’t know Xabi Alonso that well as a coach, but he was a world-class player and played under some of the best coaches, which probably rubbed off on him.”

…challenges in defence: “We’ve been improvising in defence for weeks. We have to accept our current situation. For me, it’s important that the players accept the situation and give their best possible performance in unfamiliar circumstances. I’m convinced that the lads will place themselves at the service of the team. It’s a difficult situation that we will overcome.”

…Faride Alidou: “Faride is a great guy and brings great physicality, speed and finishing ability. But he still has a few issues to work on, such as bringing more structure to his game without losing his free-spirit approach. I’m convinced he’ll get there because he’s very eager to learn. It’s a process that takes time.”