Seoane ahead of #KOEBMG: “We have to use the derby spirit”

Gerardo Seoane answered journalists’ questions in the press conference ahead of the Foals’ Bundesliga game at 1. FC Köln on Sunday (15:30 CEST). Here are his most important quotes.

…on the personnel situation: As well as Jonas Omlin, Hannes Wolf, Yvandro Borges Sanches and Tony Jantschke will unavailable in the game against 1. FC Köln. All of the other players have trained this week and are ready to play.

…on the international players’ returns: The international games have been good for Tomáš Čvančara. He took part in all of our training sessions this week and did well. Joe Scally and Ko Itakura returned from their national teams on Thursday and have enough time to prepare for the game on Sunday.

…on his expectations for the Rhine Derby: We’re expecting a stadium with lots of energy. We know that we have to use the derby spirit and are conscious of the emotional importance the game has to our fans. We want to show both our physical strengths and our footballing quality on the pitch. There will be enthralling individual battles and emotional in-game situations. I’m excited for the challenges we’ve prepared for all week to now test us on Sunday.

…on the tactical setup: We’re always focussed on our own game and think weekly about what we can improve. Of course, the opponent plays a role in the preparation, but it’s also about the long-term development of the team, and how we always have to react to certain situations. We don’t want to commit to one system, but we also want to create continuity and stability.

…on their upcoming opponents: Köln play with lots of energy and attacking dynamism. They don’t make it easy for their opponents to build up in orderly fashion in with their counter-pressing high up the pitch. We need to find solutions to counter this pressing. You need to be able to play in different ways in order to cope in Köln. Our focus is on bringing our quality to the pitch in all phases of the game.

…on Alassane Plea’s performances: Lasso has gained a lot of self-confidence and has put himself in a good position with his dedication and good performances in training. He has been working to improve himself in a lot of areas and has been rewarded with appearances and goals.