“We’re a proper team” - Kevin-Prince Boateng interview

Prince, what do you make of Monday’s extraordinary match against Leipzig?

Prince Boateng: “It really wasn’t an ordinary game. This was partly due to the supporters, who conducted their protest in a peaceful manner, but the game was also exceptional from a sporting perspective. Something happened to the players during that win. We showed against Leipzig that we’re a proper team. Because our fans weren’t cheering us on as much as usual, we had to push each other all the way. We willed each other on with every kick, and we were there for each other from the first minute to the last. It has brought us even closer together.”

You’ve got 39 points on the board now. Are you having to set new goals?

Prince Boateng: “We’ve probably secured our top-flight status already, that’s true. We obviously want to stay near the top of the league. We deserve to be in such a strong position because we play good football and with a lot of passion. It’s a wonderful feeling to be so near the top - it’s just reward for all the hard work we’ve put in over the past few weeks.”

What type of game are you expecting away to Stuttgart?

Prince Boateng: “It’s going to be a really difficult game. The change in coach has given the whole Stuttgart team a boost. VfB are playing good football at the moment, but we know what we’re capable of and want to pick up another three points. I’m confident we’ll do just that - we’re as well prepared as ever.”

Are you disappointed to miss out after picking up your fifth yellow card of the campaign on Monday?

Prince Boateng: “I definitely would’ve liked to be involved, but the team will manage fine without me. I trust the boys to return home with a good result.”

You were on a good run before the Augsburg game but ended up suffering a heavy defeat in that match. Are you confident things will turn out differently this time?

Prince Boateng: “The 3-0 defeat was a wake-up call. Maybe we needed it - sometimes you have to lose heavily to realise that you need to keep improving. We know that now and we’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again on Saturday.”

Hand on heart, did you expect Eintracht to make such rapid progress when you joined the club last summer?

Prince Boateng: “Nobody could have predicted such a transformation, which makes it all the more special. We’re working hard every day and get on really well as a team - and it’s showing. Everyone respects one another within the squad, and the coach has obviously played a big role as well.”