Marco Kurz asks for belief, desire and willingness

Since the start of the second half of the season, Augsburg have only lost once in five games – in their last matchday against Leverkusen (2-1). Markus Weinzierl's team have already collected six points this year. “They are a side in form and one with a lot of confidence at the moment,” explained sporting director Müller.

Hoffenheim manager Marco Kurz demands the following from his side: “I am not asking for anything special, no wow moments but I do ask that every member of the team does their job from the first second,” he said. The three most important things are: belief, desire and willingness.

“We want to defend our lead in the relegation battle and even improve it if possible,” said Kurz. The plan of attack in south Germany is clear: get the three points. The truth almost seems a cliché. “We can talk about it all week and prepare the lads but the most important thing is how we perform between 15.30 and 17.15 on Saturday,” explained Kurz.

“We have to have the right mindset, even in the warm up”

It's clear to all involved that Hoffenheim will face a difficult task in the SGL Arena. “We have to have the right mindset, even in the warm up,” explained Andreas Müller. Marco Kurz expects “a clear response” from his side after their defeat to VfB Stuttgart last Sunday. Each individual is challenged to perform.

“The whole group has a responsibility. Everyone here wants to play in the Bundesliga and now the lads have to show that on the pitch, in every tackle, man against man,” said Kurz. The win is something the team must earn.

In order to prepare his side, Kurz also appealed to the pride and honour of his players. Nobody is afraid ahead of the encounter. “I approach these types of games combatively. There is no room for fear.”

Kurz has almost no personnel issues. Sven Schipplock joins the long-term injury list and, despite training with the team again this week, his Achilles injury means the Augsburg game comes too soon for him. Roberto Firmino, Daniel Williams and Koen Casteels, who had knocks midweek, have returned to fitness and are available for selection.

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