Pre-season begins with fitness tests

After the planned start of training on Schenckendorffplatz was cancelled on Monday due to the bad weather, the Hertha players finally made their way onto the pitch the day after. Just like the day before, however, the weather was quick to change, with sun at the beginning, showers in the middle and then more sunshine at the end. The group of 23 players kept their hard work and spirits up despite this, however, with Henrik Kuchno taking care of both of these. The players were working hard at the start of the 90-minute session with a Bleep Test, which examined each individual’s fitness level. After that, the first proper session after the summer break included different small-sided games and finally a ten-on-ten match on a smaller pitch.

New signings on Schenckendorffplatz

Newcomers Fabian Reese and Gustav Christensen were also in action for the first time since joining and made some successful dribbles. Marius Gersbeck was also back training once again for Hertha, wearing the new turquoise training shirt. The head coach was missing 12 players, as was the case on Monday. Some will return at the weekend, but he is counting on Hertha’s talented youngsters at the beginning of preparations. “Young players are active, disciplined, have desire, don’t hold back and get involved. All the boys have to work hard, that’s the only way for us,” said Dárdai, who will hold two sessions a day over the next few days (10:00 and 16:00 CEST), at which fans will have the chance to watch the players. The first friendly match will take place on Sunday, when Hertha travel to Stahnsdorf to play RSV Eintracht (2/7, 16:00 CEST).