Domenico Tedesco: Forget about the league table in Mainz

The Zerofivers are undefeated in their last three games. “For example, Mainz won 2-0 in Berlin and played incredibly well in that game,” said Schalke’s head coach. “We found out ourselves on Saurday how hard it is to play against Hertha.” Therefore, the 32-year-old is wary of judging Sandro Schwarz’s side based on their current standing in the league table. “We have to forget about the table,” said a demanding Tedesco.

Domenico Tedesco knows Mainz's situation well

Teams fighting for survival are especially dangerous in the closing stages of a season. “They can play out of their skin on any given day,” said Tedesco and reflected on his own experience last season with FC Erzgebirge Aue where he found himself in a similar situation battling against the drop.

Kehrer fit again, Goretzka overcomes niggle

The Royal Blues’ head coach has more and more options available to him ahead of Friday night. Thilo Kehrer has trained this week after missing Saturday’s game with Hertha BSC due to an infection. Leon Goretzka will also travel to Mainz. The Germany international has missed out in recent weeks due to a foot injury. “Leon has almost trained fully in the past few days. He trained without any issues,” reported Tedesco. We will have to wait and see whether he trains fully in the remaining sessions ahead of Friday night’s game.

Additionally, Guido Burgstaller is an option once again as he completed his one match suspension last Saturday. However, Cedric Teuchert’s return date is still uncertain. The U21 international has been training as he overcomes a knee problem. “We’re not rushing Cedi back,” concluded Tedesco.