Thomas Ouwejan: We have to win our games

“Despite the fantastic win, it wasn’t a great end for me,” said Ouwejan on that incident. The left-back came on for Kerim Calhanoglu in the second half and left the ground in some pain after the late challenge. “It was tough to be back and then be on the end of a tackle like that. I was in pain after the game,” said the 25-year-old, who had missed the last few matches due to a calf problem.

Kerim Calhanoglu, captain of the U19s last year, had been deputising for Ouwejan in his absence. The Dutchman was full of praise for his teammate. “Kero did really well over the last few games,” said Oujewan. “I was really pleased for him.” Schalke’s number two believes the German U20 international has lots of potential and that it’s important for a team to be able to deal with absentees, though he hopes to be fit to play FC St. Pauli on Saturday night (7/5).

Focused on St. Pauli, excited to play at the VELTINS-Arena

The left-back stated that the dramatic win at Sandhausen will make the team stronger going into the final two games against St. Pauli and Nürnberg. “When you look at how happy we were and how happy the fans were, I’m convinced that this victory will give us additional boost,” said Ouwejan.

Ouwejan is full of respect for the upcoming opponents from Hamburg. “We lost against them in the first half of the season. St. Pauli have a good team, but we’re ready and focused. We want to put in a good performance at the VELTINS-Arena. I’m looking forward to the game.” Ouwejan won’t be looking at results from the other sides fighting for promotion. “We have to win our games and get the job done ourselves. That’s what matters, that’s what we can influence!”