Eintracht manager Armin Veh offered his views during the pre match press conference ahead of Wednesday's second round cup tie against 1. FC Kaiserslautern (kick-off 20.30h CET).
Mr Veh, what's the spirit like within the team?
The mood is good. Both teams do want to advance to the next round, the aim of any participating club is to get as far in the cup as possible and of course to earn money by doing so. It will be a tense match as for the tradition and its character of a derby.
How do you see the opponent?
Kaiserslautern won their last two league matches and played especially well away to Schalke. As their manager Marco Kurz said already it will be a close call, both squads are on a similar level. I take my hat off to Marco Kurz, to take his team and club where it is now is a great achievement.
Why are Kaiserslautern dangerous?
They do have two proper strikers up front and are a big threat from set piece situations. Players like Shechter who keeps roaming and is clinical in front of the goal will keep us busy throughout. It will be an interesting match.
Will you change the system?
Pirmin Schwegler is out with a ban, Matthias Lehmann will replace him in defensive midfield. If nothing happens until kick-off I will not make further changes and stick to the system.
Any news about Theofanis Gekas?
He felt better last night but we haven't done any tests yet. He will most likely train with the team tomorrow but will not be in the squad for the match. It is too big a risk with muscle injuries.
Once he's back to full fitness, who will play up front, him or Jimmy Hoffer?
That is difficult to say as they are different types of players. Jimmy had a great game on Sunday and also performed well in training. Changes are always possible, but it is also down to the opponent and whether we play at home or away in terms of who will start.
Did you practise penalties with the team?
I never practised penalties with any of my teams and I will keep it that way (laughs).
