Clear minds and fresh legs
After a busy week with three matches, Hertha have now started preparations for the next game against Bayer 04 Leverkusen (7/11, 15:30 CET), beginning the training week on Wednesday. The coaching team had given the players an extended weekend to recover following the hectic fixture list – and the team’s refreshed nature on the training ground was clearly noticeable. “The days off after an intense week did us good, even if we’re still really frustrated with the Hoffenheim result. We’re now really excited for Sunday’s game,” summed up Maximilian Mittelstädt.
Torunarigha, Plattenhardt & Dárdai back – just Klünter missing
Three players returned to training for the 90-minute session on Wednesday. Márton Dárdai and Marvin Plattenhardt, who pulled out of the Hoffenheim game at late notice with muscular problems, and Jordan Torunarigha, who had been out with a thigh problem, all trained with the rest of the team. The only player now currently missing is Lukas Klünter. The defender is still unavailable due to a shoulder problem. “I’m pleased to finally be back and I’m highly motivated to help the team,” commented Torunarigha on his return to training after 52 days away. Together with the rest of their teammates, the trio initially took part in some passing drills, before some keep-ball exercises and a game to finish off on a smaller pitch. Attacking coach Vedad Ibišević also played a part in the final part of the session. After the game, the Hertha players did some sprinting, having already worked in the gym in the morning.
The Herthaner will step things up in training as the week goes on to be fully ready for the clash with the ‘Werkself’ on Sunday in search of a second straight home win. One reason to be confident is Hertha’s recent form against Bayer. The ‘Old Lady’ are currently on a four-game unbeaten run against Leverkusen (W3, D1), and haven’t conceded a single goal in those four meetings! “Statistics like that are always great to read, but they won’t help us on the pitch. We need to be prepared for our opponents. We want to be compact and play with confidence to cause Leverkusen problems,” said Mittelstädt ahead of the matchday 11 clash.