Markus Gisdol: “We know our strengths”

At the same time he said, “I love my job here in Hoffenheim and enjoy the opportunity of working here every day.” The manager did not work on Wednesday. “I watched the Schalke cup game in Darmstadt on television. Our analysis of our opponents came from the last Bundesliga game,” he said.

Nevertheless, he found it difficult to summarise the Gelsenkirchen side on Thursday. “Schalke certainly pictured a better start to their Bundesliga season. There's obviously pressure to pick up something here. We've got to get an idea of the game in the first minute and then react accordingly.”

Schalke past – an advantage?

The true extent of that reaction was not something the manager was willing to reveal in its entirety. “We learnt a lot from the first few games and know what our strengths are. We want to show those on Saturday. Everyone should be able to see who we are and we are looking to achieve.”

The fact Gisdol knows a few of the current crop from his time at the club is something he considers an advantage. “But a lot has changed.” During his time, Kevin-Prince Boateng wasn't at Schalke. “He's a fantastic player and has quickly become a leader at the club. Schalke focus the play on him and he alone can decide a game.”

Special game with thoughts for Boris Vukcevic

Gisdol remained muted on his selection for the game. “We will have to wait and see about David Abraham. He returns to training today but his chances of playing are currently at 50 percent,” explained Gisdol. Sejad Salihovic could face Boateng in midfield. “It was clear Sali was lacking in match practice against Cottbus, so the game did him good. He's a really important part of this team,” said Gisdol.

Hoffenheim will be thinking of Boris Vukcevic on Saturday. On September 28th 2012, the midfielder suffered a terrible car accident. This Saturday is exactly one year to the day of the accident. “This game will be emotional,” explained Gisdol. “Boris was also a player of mine at Stuttgart's U17s. I know him well.” His team will be thinking of Boris and transform that emotion into positive energy. “We will remember how Boris played and push ourselves that bit further. That's how he was on the pitch. Boris wants us to win the three points,” said Gisdol.

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