Benjamin Stambouli: We have to play better

There was a unanimously feeling among the Royal Blues after the 1-1 draw away against 1. FC Nürnberg on Friday night. The team felt they deserved to take a point away from the Max-Morlock-Stadion but captain Benjamin Stambouli admitted: “That wasn’t enough, we have to play better!”

Schalke responded well to falling behind with just seven minutes to go, drawing level in the 85th minute. However, the Frenchman fully knew that much of the credit had to go to goalkeeper Alexander Nübel, who ensured the Royal Blues wouldn’t leave Nürnberg empty handed. “After the match, I thanked Alex,” added Stambouli. “He played unbelievably well and really helped the team secure a point.”

Taking good performances out of training and into matches

The 28 year old was especially irritated at the discrepancy between the performances in training and what happened on the pitch on Friday night. “We trained well last week but need to show this in our matches,” said the defensive midfielder. Stambouli also admitted that everyone in the squad has the sole aim of securing Bundesliga safety. “We will only achieve this if we work together. I know that we will work together,” said the Frenchman, who played alongside Salif Sané and goalscorer Matija Nastasic in central defence.

Stambouli also understood the reasons why the fans showed their discontent after the final whistle on Friday night. “Sometimes we don’t play to the best of our ability but we have to take responsibility for this,” said the captain in a forthright manner but also clearly: “From the bottom of my heart, all I want is for the fans to be satisfied with our performances after our next match.” He is also disappointed that the team and club members haven’t been able to enjoy many wins so far this season. Stambouli added: “We now need to look ahead to the future and look at what we can do to improve.”