New week begins with Grujić on board

Hertha were greeted by cold wind and sunshine at the club training complex on Monday morning, as the players completed the first session of the new week, which focused on some fun shooting exercises. “We saw some cracking goals from the lads today, but of course it’s about what happens out on the pitch this weekend,” said head coach Pál Dárdai.

“Step by step” – Easing Grujić back in

It wasn’t just the great goals and some welcome sunshine that had the Blue-Whites in a good mood on Monday though. There was good news to report on a personnel front too, with Marko Grujić back working with the team for the first time. Dárdai is wary not to give the Serb too much too soon though. “We let Marko train for three weeks and play a friendly after his last injury. We need to go about this one the same way and slowly bring him back up to pace,” said the boss. “He has had two longish spells on the sidelines now, so we can’t throw him back in too quickly.” Grujić is delighted to finally be working together with his teammates again. “It was a great feeling being back on the pitch with the guys,” said the 22-year-old, but he too remains cautious about rushing back to health. “I just want to focus on getting my fitness back first and then work my way back into the team step by step,” added the midfielder.

Speaking of work, there is still plenty for the rest of the squad to do as well. After a weekend of training and then the Telekom Cup, the boys will have a rest day on Tuesday, before the focus on Sunday’s return to Bundesliga action against 1. FC Nürnberg intensifies (15:30 CET kick-off). The Herthaner will train five times before the trip down south. “This week is about getting to the right level so that we can come back from Nuremberg with all three points,” said Dárdai.