David Wagner: Feeding off the energy in the stands

“We can feed off the energy in the stands at home, which is second to none,” the Schalke head coach said about the atmosphere within the VELTINS-Arena. Following a demanding first half of the season with several injuries, the team will be looking to draw on the energy from the fans.

According to Wagner, the upcoming opponents cannot be taken lightly. After all, SC Freiburg currently sit in sixth in the Bundesliga due to their strong showing in the Hinrunde. “Freiburg are having a great season, and are playing great football – you can see that the team know each other well,” said Wagner. He added that Freiburg start each game with a clear plan in mind, something that is evident right from kick off. “The way in which they’ve been playing this season, and the points they’ve picked up speak for themselves. We’re up against a tough opponent,” said Wagner.

Kutucu a doubt

The squad for the upcoming match is largely complete. Aside from those players with long-term injuries, Ahmed Kutucu is the only player who remains a doubt for tomorrow’s match due to a bruised foot. According to Wagner, a decision on whether or not the attacker will feature against Freiburg will only be made after the team’s final training session.

Wagner is looking to go into the winter break with three points in hand from the match against Freiburg. “We aren’t in Christmas mode yet, and are instead focused on the task at hand,” said Wagner. “We really want to win this game in order to cap off our achievements so far this season. In order to do so, we’re calling upon each and every one of us to give it their all!”