Baumgartner: “We have it in our own hands”

Christoph, after two defeats recently it remains very close in the table. How do you view the current situation?

“We of course know our situation in the table, but we must also realise that we cannot influence the results of our rivals. If we win our matches and pick up the necessary points, the results of our competitors are not relevant for us. We’re above the line at the moment and have our fate in our own hands – we must always be aware of that.”

Can you explain why the momentum from the successful run beforehand has disappeared?

“We were actually in a good rhythm. Maybe we took the game against Cologne a bit too lightly after picking up the point in Munich. We’ve been lacking that last three or four percent lately, but you need that in the Bundesliga to win a game.”

Do you look for distractions during the week or do you keep busy with football in your free time?

“I’m a football fan through and through. So during the week I also watch the games in the DFB-Pokal or the Premier League. However, it is also important to think about other things and to do something to clear your head. On training-free days in particular, I like to do that.”

Did you follow the semi-final between Eintracht Frankfurt and VfB Stuttgart as a fan or in preparation for Saturday?

“You do of course analyse the opposition in front of the television. What system do Frankfurt play? Where are they dangerous? Where can we put them under pressure? But our coaching staff can do that even better and will prepare us perfectly so that we’re ready for the match on Saturday.”

What kind of game are you expecting on Saturday?

“Frankfurt will come with a good feeling after getting through to the cup final. There’s a great deal at stake for us in the relegation battle, but Eintracht are also lagging behind their expectations in the league. However, we must focus on ourselves. It will be about producing our best performance on the pitch and getting three points.”

What impact has Grischa Prömel’s comeback had on the team?

“He’s always a factor for us with his presence. Of course, he cannot yet be back to 100 percent after such a long break. But it helps us on the pitch and in the changing rooms that he’s back again. Grischa is enjoying being able to play again and to lead by example after such a long break.”