Benni Hübner: “We have to show what we’re capable of at home”

Against Borussia Mönchengladbach, you scored your third of the season. All the goals this season have been with your head. What’s your secret?

Benni Hübner: “There is no secret. For us central defenders, an attacking set-piece like a corner or free-kick is almost our only chance to score. I think I’m at an advantage due to my size. You also need to time it right and a bit of fortune on your side. Also, you need someone to put the ball in right – thankfully we have that in our team.”

What did you do with your break from Bundesliga action?

Hübner: "At the start, I wasn’t fully fit and was suffering a bit from aches and pains. I’ve overcome that now. After this week’s intensive training sessions, I feel fully fit and ready to go.”

Is it an issue for the players in Zuzenhausen when you train without a full squad?

Hübner: "It’s not an issue. The only thing that can make a difference is how fit the players returning from international duty can be. Every player reacts differently to the burden of travelling or time difference in some cases. In this situation, we aren’t alone. All the clubs are dealing with that. We just have to come together and prepare as well as we can for our next opponent. We know the coaching team will have us ready and raring to go.”

Let’s look ahead to matchday 28. 1. FC Köln are heading to the WIRSOL Rhein-Neckar Arena. In your preparations, are you expecting to face a Köln side that will have their backs to the wall?

Hübner: "That doesn’t make a difference to how we play. We have our own goals that we’re trying to achieve. 1. FC Köln are on the way up. They won in Leverkusen before the international break and won against RB Leipzig. We know how dangerous our opponent can be!"

What do you think will make the difference on Saturday?

Hübner: "It’ll be important to try and prevent our opponent from building up momentum. We have to show what we’re capable of at home from the off. In the reverse fixture, we played well and want to do the same again this weekend.”

The WIRSOL Rhein-Neckar is sold out once again. What does the fans’ support mean to the team?

Hübner: "We’re ecstatic. It’s all a reward for the performances we’ve put in for the past two years on home turf. We want to thank the fans for their support with a good performance at the weekend once again. Bring on Saturday!"

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