Herrmann: "We've often struggled in Hoffenheim"

You've kicked off the season by taking seven points from five games. How do you assess your start?

"I think we can be entirely satisfied with our start. We've adopted a new system of play and have implemented the coach's instructions well to date. We still have a lot of work ahead of us, but it was clear that this development was going to take time. That said, we've obviously delighted with the number of points we've picked up."

You bounced back strongly from your 4-0 home defeat to Wolfsberger AC in the Europa League by beating Fortuna Düsseldorf 2-1. How important was it to show a reaction?

"It goes without saying it was very important to react following the Wolfsberg defeat. Matches where things just don't go well can always happen. In such situations, it is important to give everything in the next game and to deliver a convincing performance on the pitch. The victory over Düsseldorf was hugely important, especially for the team's morale, and the win sparked much euphoria among our fans too."

There have been many goals in your recent meetings with TSG Hoffenheim. Are you expecting this match to be as spectacular as some of the previous ones?

"There have indeed been a lot of goals in the previous meetings. Obviously it's always difficult to predict how a game is going to unfold, but I can well envisage that there might be quite a few goals this time around too given that both teams are strong going forward."

Where do you see TSG's strengths?

"Hoffenheim are always a tough team to face and we've often struggled against them, especially in Hoffenheim. Without a doubt, TSG have gone through a minor upheaval this season due to the numerous departures and arrivals plus the new coach. All in all, I think Hoffenheim are a seasoned Bundesliga team that is attack-minded and likes to play football. What is clear is that we'll need to give everything to come away with any points."

Match facts and statistics »