Matarazzo: “A game full of emotion”

Pellegrino Matarazzo on …

… the injury problems in the back line: “We will rely on the players who defend everything, regardless of the structure. The lads are full of energy to stop the offensive force of the Stuttgart side. There are a lot of players available. We have various options.”

… his VfB past: “When you’ve worked at a club for so long, it’s something special. But with each game, it will be a little less so.”

… the importance of the match: “It’s an important game for us and the local area. We are massively looking forward to a game full of emotions. Our goal is to summon up our best performance. The fact that it will kick off at 18:30 makes it even more special. We go into every game, playing to win, and believe in that. Every opponent is different, but we are prepared. We have to bring a similar level of energy on to the pitch as we did in Dortmund and against Bremen. Then we will be able to get a win.”

… the success of VfB: “The path VfB have taken this season is extraordinary. That is down to a number of different factors. Sebastian Hoeness is doing a great job, and the squad fits perfectly with his philosophy. Everyone can improve, playing to his strengths. They play as if they’re in a flow state. It’s not always easy to explain.”

… Maximilian Beier’s call-up: “He’s definitely earned it. Maxi is so effective for us and will be for every team. Maxi had his ups and downs in pre-season. That is part of the development. It speaks for the lad, who is very down-to-earth. On the pitch, he’s an animal, and off the pitch, he’s a shy young boy.”

The personnel situation:

Mergim Berisha, Marco John and Dennis Geiger are still out. Grischa Prömel is back on the training ground, but will not be available for the match on Saturday. John Anthony Brooks and Ozan Kabak are suspended. Anton Stach and Umut Tohumcu are also taking part in team training. Robert Skov is again available, while Pavel Kadeřábek and Marius Bülter return from suspension.

The opposition’s form:

In the past seven games, VfB Stuttgart have taken 19 out of 21 points, making them the league’s most in-form team. With 53 points, coach Sebastian Hoeness’ team lie in third place.

Head-to-head record:

TSG have hit their stride against VfB in recent meetings, winning two of the last four games between the sides, and drawing the other two. Overall, however, the head-to-head record speaks in favour of Stuttgart, with ten victories and eight defeats (plus nine draws).