Mr Veh, you have been ill, are you better?
I would exaggerate if I said I feel good, but I am better now. Only once in 21 years as a manager I missed a match of my team because I was ill. Funny enough it was against Eintracht, when I managed Hamburger SV.
How are the strikers?
Gekas was examined by the doc, he is alright which is important for us. But Rob Friend will not be available for the match against Aachen.
And all the travelling players have returned safe and sound from their national teams?
Hoffer came back fresh and well, proving the good work of the new Austrian manager. Schildenfeld played both full matches for Croatia, it is important now that he keeps up the eagerness and is fully focussed on Sunday. But I'm not worried about that with him, and physically it was not a problem for him either. Also Gekas, Bell, Jung and Matmour all returned in good shape.
How do you assess the opponent?
Surely it will not be easy. Last year Aachen played a good season. But you notice that their results of the season start changed their psyche and put pressure on them. There were no major changes to the squad, there is definately quality in the team. They are not an opponent you easily dominate, which I think does not happen in 2. Bundesliga anyhow.
Will it be a special match?
For Friedhelm Funkel for sure. I rate him highly and we get on well. He was here at the club for five years and had a good time. I expect that he will prepare his team highly professional.
What does that mean for your team?
They will try to come forward on the break, with counter attacks. For us that means particularly that we will need patience. They played well away to Bochum and would have deserved a point as they clearly dominated the second half.
