"That made me even more excited to move to Berlin!”

Berlin - Birthdays are usually a time where friends and family gather to celebrate together. But, with countless countries around the world on lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, many people will be celebrating in smaller groups than usual. That’s the case for Lucas Tousart: the Frenchman, who will join Hertha at the end of the 2019/20 season, will be celebrating his 23rd birthday at home with his girlfriend. “We will bake a cake together and spend the day at home,” the midfielder shared. Herthabsc.de took the time to wish him all the best, before interviewing the future Herthaner about how he’s spending his days in lockdown, which TV show he’s binge-watching at the moment and his future with the Old Lady.

herthabsc.de: Salut Lucas, and Happy Birthday! What will you be doing to celebrate?

Lucas Tousart: Thank you! Given that we’re not allowed to leave our home, my girlfriend and I will bake a cake together and spend the day at home. This birthday will be a bit different than past ones given the current situation, but we will make the best of it!

herthabsc.de: France is currently on lockdown, and public life has slowed down significantly, as it has in several places around the world. What does a typical day in the Tousart household look like?

Tousart: We’re confined to our homes right now, and are only permitted to go outside when necessary. For example, if you have to do some shopping or go to the doctor then you can get a note that you have to carry with you. If possible, we’re all supposed to stay at home. I’ve been passing the time by exercising often and am trying to stay fit. Other than that, my girlfriend and I cook together regularly or we watch movies and TV shows.

herthabsc.de: Have you seen any good films or watched any good shows recently?

Tousart: Yes, we both really enjoyed Money Heist, and I can definitely recommend that one! We just finished the most recent season and are already impatiently waiting for the next season to be released (laughs).

herthabsc.de: Let’s talk football for a minute. The current situation is also having an impact on professional football. The Top 5 leagues all would like to see the season played to an end. But, as of Tuesday afternoon it doesn’t appear as though Ligue 1 will be able to complete the season. Despite the uncertainty, are you looking forward to joining Berlin?

Tousart: Of course I’m already looking forward to joining Hertha! An official decision on whether or not the French league will continue has yet to be released. In either case, I’m keeping myself in shape at home while also preparing for my arrival in Berlin. I don’t know yet whether my move will be a bit delayed because of the current situation, but I’m still looking forward to being in Berlin soon!

herthabsc.de: Thanks for taking the time for this interview, Lucas. Do you have any final words for the Hertha fans?

Tousart: I would definitely like to say ‘thank you’ for all the messages I received from the fans. That made me even more excited to move to Berlin. I want to give something back to the fans on the pitch and help them to experience some positive emotions with the team as soon as we’re allowed to play again!