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Kees van Wonderen: We’re all aware of our position in the table
After getting over the disappointment of Tuesday’s DFB-Pokal exit and analysing that defeat at FC Augsburg, the Knappen’s full focus is now on the away game on Friday night (1/11, 18:30 CET) at SSV Ulm 1846. In order to help the team prepare for the league match, the players have stayed down south to avoid having to travel twice this week.
“Everybody understands how important the next games are. Everyone knows how big this club is. We’re ready to show that,” said Kees van Wonderen. “We’re all aware of our current position in the table and know what’s needed to start climbing it. We’re working hard every day and are doing all we can to be successful.”
A win at the Donaustadion against the ‘Sparrows’ would see the Royal Blues overtake them in the table, with both teams currently on the same number of points. It would also provide the team with some much-needed momentum ahead of the final game before the third international break of the season, as SSV Jahn Regensburg visit Gelsenkirchen in a week’s time. “Ulm is the only game that matters right now,” stressed S04’s head coach.
We have respect for them, but we’re mainly focusing on ourselves. Our aim is to take all three points back to Gelsenkirchen with us.
Schalke’s opponents won promotion in each of the last two seasons, rising from the fourth tier to the second division in back-to-back campaigns. “Ulm are a well-organised side, physically strong and tough to face, they’re doing well overall,” praised van Wonderen, who, together with his coaching team, has thoroughly analysed the ‘Sparrows’. However, his team is prepared for Ulm’s style of play: “We have respect for them, but we’re mainly focusing on ourselves. Our aim is to take all three points back to Gelsenkirchen with us.”
Schalke’s coach believes the cup tie in Augsburg can give them some confidence. “We’re on the right track and took another step in the right direction.” He was naturally disappointed after conceding two late goals to lose 3-0, but added: “We had periods in which we could have scored and we made life tough for a Bundesliga side.” The Dutchman believes it’s important to continue tweaking with a few things. “We showed a different side to ourselves after the Fürth game. We need to continue believing in ourselves – that’s how we’ll be successful.”
Few potential doubts
Van Wonderen could have more players available to him than during the week in Augsburg. A final decision will be made on Ron Schallenberg and Moussa Sylla after Friday’s training session, after the pair missed the cup game with a knock. The same applies to Lino Tempelmann, who was rested after recently returning from several months out injured. The coaching team are hopeful that Amin Younes can feature. The attacking midfielder has since travelled down south after not making the squad for Augsburg.
Felipe Sanchez will definitely not feature after being sent off for two yellow cards in the last league game against SpVgg Greuther Fürth.
