“It’ll never be forgotten” - Michael Hector interview

Michael, what are your memories of Eintracht’s DFB Cup semi-final last season?

Michael Hector: “The semi-final was a bit strange for me personally. I hadn’t played in the league for almost a month and suddenly the coach was standing before me and telling me I was going to start, and in such a big game too. In hindsight, I have to say that the win in Mönchengladbach has to be one of the highlights of my career. It was one of the nicest feelings I’ve had as a footballer. The win on penalties, the celebrations with the away fans, the party in the changing room and on the bus home - it’ll never be forgotten.”

Could you have imagined back then that Eintracht would go on to reach another semi-final just a year later?

Michael Hector: “It’s every fan’s dream, of course. Everyone has been dreaming of going all the way to the final again this season, and maybe even going one better. You have to say that Eintracht are playing some really good football this season and deserve to be where they are in the league and cup.”

You currently play for Hull City in England. Do you still manage to follow Eintracht?

Michael Hector: “It’s crazy - I follow the Bundesliga very closely indeed. I watch all the Eintracht games that are broadcast here in Great Britain. I’m also still in touch with several of my former teammates. I’ve been meaning to go and watch a game in Frankfurt for a while but the fixture list in England is incredibly intense. One thing’s clear, though: if the boys reach the final, I’ll be there!”

How are things at Hull City?

“This season hasn’t been going as well as we’d hoped and imagined. I’m not too unhappy, though, as I’ve played a lot of matches and have continued to improve my game. That will stand me in good stead for the future.”

Jamaican defender Michael Hector spent the 2017/18 season at Eintracht. The Chelsea loanee made 27 competitive appearances for the Eagles, scoring once. He started both the DFB Cup semi-final and final in Berlin, before returning to Chelsea last summer. Hector is currently on loan at English second-division side Hull City.