Makoto Hasebe on...
…pre-season: “I feel in top shape and generally in the team it’s going very well. We have a new coach and all the players have a clean slate. There’s big competition for places and I also have to work hard for my place in the team.”
…Oliver Glasner: “We’ve only been training under him for two and a half weeks. He works with us on the details, both offensively and defensively. I’m very impressed by his personality, which is a very important factor for me. He’s very open and communicative.”
…the large number of young players in the squad: “It’s crazy – the 16-year-old boys could be my sons (laughs). Ali Akman, for example, always warms up behind me and watches how I do the exercises. He also looks at what I do in the dressing room. I have to and want to be a role model both on the pitch and in the dressing room.”
…his uncertain retirement plans: “I want to continue developing and earn my place in the team. I’d actually planned around a year ago to end my career in the summer, but plans can always change. I’m fit and as long as I feel good, I can play football.”
