Ishak: "We're down on our luck at the moment"

Mikael, your team played well last week against Leipzig, but ultimately lost in unfortunate circumstances. Why do you think you came away empty handed?

''I think we were slightly unlucky over the course of the match. We played really well defensively and we certainly had chances to get a draw. Unfortunately we missed a penalty when the score was at 0-0. We need a break at the moment, and we're just not getting it.''

You're the last-placed side in the Bundesliga, you've gone 18 matches without a win and you currently find yourselves six points off the relegation play-off spot. Just how big of an ask is survival?

''It's not going to be easy, but the fans cheer us on and stand behind us every game - it doesn't matter if we're home or away. That should be motivation enough for us to put together a good run of results and save ourselves from the drop.''

The club has already opted for a change in manager this season, what difference has this made?

''Boris Schommer was already our assistant coach, but of course he also brings his own new ideas to the table. Under his leadership, we've definitely played more compactly at the back and become more solid.''

What will it come down to against Hoffenheim?

''We have to keep it tight, but we also need to make better use of our counter-attacking opportunities. TSG are a strong attacking team. We've managed to steady our defense, but now we also need to show some strength going forward. We won't get all that many chances, so if we want to get points on the board we need to make the most of what comes our way.''

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