Ansgar, it's now a couple of days after the news of your injury. Have you been able to digest the fact that you won't be participating at the U21 European Championship?
“How do you define digest? I'm obviously disappointed and I think that's normal. We had a long qualifying campaign and prepared ourselves for this tournament for a long time, most recently at our training camp. I also had big plans, so to be ruled out at the last minute is obviously frustrating. But there's nothing I can do. I wish the team all the best and that they go as far as possible. I'm looking forward and will do everything I can to get back to fitness as quickly as possible so that I can go full steam ahead in the new season.”
You certainly have a positive mindset. What are your plans for the coming weeks?
“I'm back in Frankfurt now and I've started my rehabilitation. In the first couple of weeks that primarily involves a lot of treatment and not a lot of active work, because the wounds from the surgery need to heal first. I can start running, training and doing leg work again fairly soon after that. I'm just trying to work my way back as well and as quickly as possible.”
I'll be cheering them on from home!
Ansgar Knauff
Germany play their first game tonight against Israel, with Faride Alidou part of the squad. Where will you watch the game?
“I'll certainly be watching at home and I wish the boys all the best. I'm hoping for a good start with three points, which would be really important. If we win the game then things will be looking really good. I'll be cheering them on from home.”
Any final words for the boys?
“Lads, give it your all tonight against Israel, get the three points and good luck for the whole tournament!”
