David Wagner: The moments a coach loves

Leipzig’s performances so far this season have impressed Schalke coach with the team’s quick, dynamic, physical playing style leading them to some great victories. „We want to frustrate them and make it so they hate playing against us,“ explained Wagner.

At the same time he also emphasised that the Royal Blues won’t just sit back against such a strong opponent. „We also want to bring our game to the pitch in Leipzig. We did that against Bayern Munich, but of course every game is different. For example, the use of long balls can be a means against a team that presses so well. At Schalke we have certain values though, „said the 47-year-old. „The fact is sitting back and just defending won’t work. Leipzig are far too good for that and they’ll put too much pressure on us.“

All players have trained

Wagner has a full squad at his disposal for the first time this season – all players of the squad are fit and have participated in recent training sessions. „These are the moments that a coach loves. It’s great to have the full team back, „said Wagner. „Huge compliments to our medical department, our physios and our athletic trainers how have been working around the clock.“

We are still yet to see exactly how he will put together the squad for the duel with Leipzig. „I’m spoilt for choice – but that’s a good thing and it’s certainly much better than only being able to plan with only 15 of your own players.“ The last player to return to the training ground was Benito Raman. The Belgian had last missed the Mainz game because of an ankle problem. Wagner will wait until after the final training session to decide whether he will figure in the squad though. „I don’t want to rule him out,“ said the coach.