Rutter: ''I'd like to help the team''

The 2021/22 season got underway with the first competitive game on Monday. What did you make of the 3-2 extra-time win against Viktoria Cologne in the DFB-Pokal?

''It was very important to get off to a good start this season. The win did the team a lot of good, it gives us confidence going into the game against Augsburg. And for me personally, it was absolutely brilliant to be included in the starting XI.'' 

You had an excellent preseason. How happy are you with your situation at TSG at the moment?

''It was a brilliant preseason; not just for me, for the whole team as well. I gave it my all and can be happy with my performance at the moment. We managed to win our first competitive game and also gave a good showing in the friendly against Fürth. Everything is going well at the moment, things are running smoothly in training, we're very focused, the coach has done everything to make sure we're well prepared for the challenges to come.''

Now the Bundesliga gets going again at the weekend. What are your thoughts going into the opening game against Augsburg on Saturday?

''I remember playing against Augsburg in the second half of last season. Unfortunately we lost that game. So now we have the chance to go to their turf and get revenge. We absolutely want to win this one. It would be the perfect start to the Bundesliga season. It would give us even more confidence and belief in ourselves.''

Are you hoping that coach Sebastian Hoeness will once again name you in the starting line-up in Augsburg? And what goals have you set yourself for the season as a whole?

''I don't know if I'll be on from the start again against Augsburg. I'm ready if the coach places trust in me again. As for the entire season, I would like to play more games and show what I can do. I want to be a difference-maker and help the team as much as I can.''

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