Omar Mascarell: Give the fans another home victory

The midfielder spoke prior to the game against Augsburg and wants to finally secure Bundesliga status for next season – which could happen on Saturday depending on the Hertha BSC VfB Stuttgart result.

Following on from the derby victory last week, Schalke are six points ahead of VfB Stuttgart. Few pundits thought that Schalke would pick up points against Borussia Dortmund in the Revierderby. “We worked very hard during the week and were able to perfectly implement our tactics,” said Mascarell who claims that there were two key components to their victory: “We knew that we would have to work hard and stay compact in order to have a chance and we did exactly that.”

The Revierderby victory was very important for the team but also for the fans. The 26-year-old said: “It was clear to us that our fans, especially after the defeat to Hoffenheim, were not happy. Therefore it was great to celebrate the derby victory together with our fans and was great to see how happy the fans were.” He continued: “We have to push forward now and give everything on Sunday. Not only for us, but for everyone.”

Marathon Man Mascarell

Mascarell was a key player during the superb victory in Dortmund. The former Frankfurt man ran a total of 12.42 kilometers – more than any other player on the pitch. “If I have to run 13 kilometers or more and we win, then I know I’ve done my job,” said Mascarell. “The important thing is to get the three points and avoid relegation.”

In order for this to happen on Sunday against FC Augsburg, the same mentality that was used against BVB will need to be used so that Schalke can give their home fans a victory. “We will play in front of our fans at the VELTINS Arena and they deserve a home victory. We are in good spirits and are ready for Sunday,” said Mascarell.

Despite being fully focused on the upcoming game, the Spaniard also has given thoughts to his former team mate Iker Casillas, who suffered a heart attack on Wednesday during training. His condition is thankfully not life-threatening. “I know Iker a little from back when I was at Real Madrid and occasionally played with the first team,” said Mascarell. “I wish him a speedy recovery and I’m sure he will come back stronger.”