Third versus fourth - but it’s not a defining game

Simultaneously, the head coach emphasised that the game isn’t a “defining game” for the remainder of the season. “We want to put in our best possible performance in every game we play. At the end of the season, we’ll see where that gets us. We’re not looking at the table. Our focus just lies on the game ahead.”

Nine games unbeaten for S04

The Royal blues head to Mönchengladbach with their heads held high as they’re on a nine game unbeaten streak. However, aside from the recent 3-0 loss to Wolfsburg, the hosts have been in strong form of late and their last home game was a 2-1 win over Bayern Munich. “I’m certain that by the end of the season Mönchengladbach will be towards the top of the table by the end of the season”, said Tedesco. The reasoning for this statement came straight after: “Borussia are very solid with a number of strong options. They can counter quickly, directly and effectively. In the final third, Mönchengladbach can still be effective even when there’s less space by creating opportunities as they have quality players.”

Goretzka won’t be available in Borussia-Park

Schalke’s coach has full trust in his team that is capable of putting in performances as we saw in the second half of the Revierderby, even when key players can’t play. “We’re missing a few players but we’ve still a strong group,” highlighted Tedesco who are missing Nabil Bentaleb, Pablo Insua and Leon Goretzka for the game.

Compensating for injuries

“Of course injuries aren’t ideal”, said Tedesco. “However, we’ve pulled through in similar situations in the past. We keep growing as a team. We all trust one another and everyone in the squad has the chance of playing.” Max Meyer and Weston McKennie, who both had to miss training during the week, are available to play again. “Both were suffering with a cold but are both fit again”, said the head coach.