The final touches

Finishing was the main focus point in Tuesday’s training (16th January), which should come in handy in Friday’s home game against Borussia Dortmund (19th January).

Berlin – “We simply have to score,” explained Pál Dárdai after the first training session on Tuesday afternoon (16th January). What didn’t work out for his men in the loss against Stuttgart last weekend – finishing – should come off in the upcoming home game against Borussia Dortmund on Friday (19th January). Dárdai put the stress on that at Tuesday’s session.

Goals should lead to the points that Hertha will be striving for against BVB. “Both teams want to win, which is why I’m expecting an open game with chances for both sides,” opines Salomon Kalou. Dárdai wants his players to draw on what they learned in training: “Our opponents are very dynamic on the pitch so we have to play how we know best. We’re physically fit and that’s the base for a strong performance,” says the coach. “If what we’ve learned has sunk in and our plan works out, we can win,” the Hungarian appears confident.

Duda to play number ten?

Ondrej Duda is an option for the matchday’s highlight game. “I haven’t seen him train like this in a long time. His light-footed and movement appear improved compared to recently. Perhaps we’ll play him as number ten,” Dárdai gives his thoughts on his number ten. Alexander Esswein is another option for the first home game of the year since he returned to Tuesday’s training after overcoming his flu. Peter Pekarik worked individually with fitness coach Hendrik Vieth due to neck problems. “Pekarik’s spine has recovered overnight and if it remains in a good condition, then he will be able to train with the team again on Wednesday,” says Dárdai. Karim Rekik remained out due to muscle problems.

The centre back will no longer be able to take part in the short training week with his teammates. The Hertha players will take part in another open training session on Wednesday at 10:00 CET and further sessions will take place behind closed doors. The players will hit the training ground again at 10:00 CET the morning after Friday evening’s match.

Berlin – “We simply have to score,” explained Pál Dárdai after the first training session on Tuesday afternoon (16th January). What didn’t work out for his men in the loss against Stuttgart last weekend – finishing – should come off in the upcoming home game against Borussia Dortmund on Friday (19th January). Dárdai put the stress on that at Tuesday’s session.

Goals should lead to the points that Hertha will be striving for against BVB. “Both teams want to win, which is why I’m expecting an open game with chances for both sides,” opines Salomon Kalou. Dárdai wants his players to draw on what they learned in training: “Our opponents are very dynamic on the pitch so we have to play how we know best. We’re physically fit and that’s the base for a strong performance,” says the coach. “If what we’ve learned has sunk in and our plan works out, we can win,” the Hungarian appears confident.

Duda to play number ten?

Ondrej Duda is an option for the matchday’s highlight game. “I haven’t seen him train like this in a long time. His light-footedness and movement appear improved compared to recent times. Perhaps we’ll play him as number ten,” Dárdai gives his thoughts on his number ten. Alexander Esswein is another option for the first home game of the year since he returned to Tuesday’s training after overcoming his flu. Peter Pekarik worked individually with fitness coach Hendrik Vieth due to neck problems. “Pekarik’s spine has recovered overnight and if it remains in a good condition, then he will be able to train with the team again on Wednesday,” says Dárdai. Karim Rekik remained out due to muscle problems.

The centre back will no longer be able to take part in the short training week with his teammates. The Hertha players will take part in another open training session on Wednesday at 10:00 CET and further sessions will take place behind closed doors. The players will hit the training ground again at 10:00 CET the morning after Friday evening’s match.