Domenico Tedesco praises his team – Mark Uth on ‘pressure’

Goals from Cedric Teuchert (86), Mark Uth (87) and one of the opposition’s defenders secured the 3-1 win for the Royal Blues. The 32-year old coach Tedesco was full of praise for his team: “It’s a testament to their character. Throughout the match, we struggled to find that final pass. We also gave the ball away too easily which allowed Hebei to go on the counter and take the lead,” he said. “We need to make sure we stay alert for the entirety of the match. We will learn from today.”

The head coach reminded his players that Hebei China Fortune FC are just one week away from recommencing their competitive season. “Our opponents were In top form as they begin the second half of their season next week,” stated Tedesco. “You could clearly tell. It was not easy for us, but I am incredibly proud of the boys for making the impressive comeback.”

Mark Uth: I was under pressure

The match was a special one for Mark Uth who scored his first goal for Schalke since joining the club from Hoffenheim. “After the other new arrivals Suat Serdar and Steven Skrzybski scored against Southampton, I was feeling under pressure and knew I had to perform,” said the striker after the final whistle. “I am pleased that I managed to get on the scoresheet in just my second appearance. I haven’t lost my form over the last six weeks but I need to keep scoring in the run-up to the Bundesliga start,” he added.

Baba: I'm not afraid

Abdul-Rahman Baba was pleased to be back on the pitch after being out long-term through injury. “I am feeling better with every game I play,” he explained. He is no longer thinking about his knee injury. “I am not afraid when I go onto the pitch to play,” said the left-footer. “I am determined to help the team in the coming weeks and months.”