“We’ve switched back into competitive mode” | OneFootball

Head coach Dino Toppmöller turns his attention back on the Bundesliga, outlines Holstein Kiel’s style of play, draws lessons from the Europa League and issues updates on Koch and Götze.

Dino Toppmöller on ...

…personnel: “Hugo Ekitiké and Rasmus Kristensen had to come off yesterday with minor knocks. We’re waiting to see how they fare in the final training session, as we are with Robin Koch. The medical department is confident all three will be fine. With Mario Götze, I’m very confident he’ll be coming to Kiel with us.”

…focusing on the Bundesliga: “The great thing about European games is that you’re right back in Bundesliga action three days later. No matter whether you’ve won or lost, the focus turns directly upon what lies ahead. We were very frustrated with the result on Thursday, but we immediately switched back into competitive mode. We really want to make it four [Bundesliga] wins in a row.”

…the mood in the camp: “Wins always help. We’ve already been through a lot this season. We progressed in the DFB Cup, played well in Dortmund, lost, but reacted well. The lads have responded well to those three victories, too. We were hungry on Thursday and our counter-press was as good as it’s been all season. That shows the hunger is there.”

…Eintracht’s approach: “The players know exactly what’s in store – they respect every opponent. That’s how we approached things on Thursday and we’ll do the same again on Sunday. We as a coaching team also play a big part in that. We’ll prepare meticulously, go into the game in as strong a position as possible and sharpen the lads’ focus. We’ll field a team that is bursting with energy and fully fit.”

…upcoming opponents Holstein Kiel: “Holstein Kiel have a clear structure when in possession. They try to get the ball forward in a tidy manner. I’m not expecting them to just sit back and defend. Kiel are good on the ball, have two very dangerous strikers, a good midfield, good technicians and a goalkeeper who can play out from the back. It’s an exciting challenge and we’re ready for everything.”