FIRST TEAM
01/31/2020

Tah: "It'll be a real challenge"

Though still just 23, Jonathan Tah is a Germany international and a key player for Bayer Leverkusen. In an interview with achtzehn99.de prior to facing TSG on Saturday (15:30 CET/Live Ticker at achtzehn99.de), the centre-back discussed B04's targets, his expectations for Saturday and the reverse fixture.

Jonathan, you've started the second half-season with six points. How do you assess your start to the year?

"It's obviously been very good in terms of points. And in terms of performance we had good spells in both games too. However, we need to be more clinical with our chances. That was our shortcoming in the first half-season. But we're working hard on that."

You're currently in fifth place on 34 points – two points behind the Champions League places. What are your objectives for the season?

"In my eyes, Bayer 04 has everything it takes to be playing Champions League football. So that is an obvious target. But we don't only want to go on the attack in the league; we want to get as far as we possibly can in the cup and Europa League too. We certainly have that in us."

You're away to Hoffenheim on Saturday. What kind of game are you expecting?

"I can't envisage us creating as many goalscoring opportunities as we did against Paderborn und Düsseldorf. So we'll do well to be more clinical with the chances that do come our way. Especially as Hoffenheim have tended to look good against the top teams this season. It'll be a real challenge but one that we're highly motivated for."

In Kerem Demirbay and Nadiem Amiri, Leverkusen have two players who only left Hoffenheim in the summer. Will they be able to give you tips?

"That's not necessary. We've already played in Sinsheim several times. And the reverse fixture is still very much fresh in our minds."

The reverse fixture ended 0-0 despite Leverkusen having lots of chances and 16 corners. What are your memories of that meeting?

"It was really frustrating. We put in a huge effort in that game. A point in return was definitely not sufficient. I can remember that I made one or two advances into the opposition half in the second period. Perhaps I'll even manage to get a goal on Saturday. Unfortunately, Kevin Volland denied me one against Düsseldorf (grins)..."

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