Intensive training includes Stark and Ibisevic

The intensity of training on Wednesday (15/02/17) in Berlin was high. In beautiful sunshine, the agenda for the morning session was simple: sprint training followed by duels. “We have to be prepared for an intense battle against Bayern and we will need to be aggressive,” said Pál Dárdai after training, with his players having toiled away for just under 75 minutes.  

Schieber concern

Towards the end of training, Valentin Stocker came out of a one-on-one with Peter Pekarik in pain. “Stocki was a bit unlucky as he landed awkwardly, but I don’t think it’s as bad as it first looked,” commented Dárdai on the incident, which left Hertha’s number 14 needing treatment before he left the training field with a bandage on his knee. Vedad Ibisevic and Niklas Stark were back training with their teammates having previously been doing individual work. “My calf has fully healed. I’m ready to play on Saturday,” said Stark. However, it’s possible that Julian Schieber won’t be available for Saturday’s game. The attacker carried out a reduced training session on Wednesday. “He was having more trouble with his knee, but we’ll have to take a closer look,” said Dárdai.

The Hungarian will finalise his starting XI in the coming days and is preparing his team for matchday 21 against Bayern behind closed doors.