“For Seppl, for Hase, for us” | OneFootball

Head coach Dino Toppmöller issues the battle cry for the clash with Borussia Mönchengladbach, discusses expectations of his players and assesses the strengths of the Foals.

Dino Toppmöller on ...

… the situation: “Both teams went through a lot of upheaval before the season, and both can achieve their season-long aims with a win on Saturday. We’re looking to lock down sixth spot and we’re going to do all it takes to achieve that.”

… the objective: “We have our objective for the season in our sights and are close to the finishing line. We’re in sixth place, we want to hold onto it and we’re going to do all it takes to achieve that. We know we can always count on the great support of our fans. We have to give 100 percent in Gladbach in terms of commitment, intensity, footballing quality and efficiency.”

… retiring duo Sebastian Rode and Makoto Hasebe: “It’s something I’ve touched on in the dressing room during the week. It’s absolutely important to me and to us that we give these two players the send-off they deserve. It means a lot to us. The service they’ve given to this club over the years is incredible; the way they’ve driven the club forward and represented it. We’re all aware of this significance. Not just because of the performances they’ve produced but also the dedication they’ve shown to the club. These two players are also part of the reason why this club has developed the way it has in recent years. My expectation of every individual who gets on the bus to Mönchengladbach is that they give everything so that these two players get the send-off they deserve. That’s the motto I’ve given: for Seppl, for Hase, for us.”

… the team news: “Donny van de Beek has a problem in his heel and Achilles area and is currently receiving treatment in the Netherlands. We’re doing everything we can so that he can return to training next week and be in contention for the game against Leipzig. Aside from that, I’m hopeful that we can pick from a full squad.”

… opponents Borussia Mönchengladbach: “It’s going to be a very emotional game as there’s also a lot at stake for Borussia Mönchengladbach. They want to salvage a season which hasn’t gone so well and not slip further down. Borussia have a technically strong midfield as well as an experienced defence with robust players who are strong in the tackle and in the air – also at set pieces. We need to stand up to them physically from dead balls and be very alert. We must give away as few set pieces as possible – corners can’t always be avoided, but simple fouls can be. They have a lot of quality up front: pace with players like [Robin] Hack and [Franck] Honorat, and then players like Jordan and [Alassane] Pléa who can link up play. They’re a side who have played below their capabilities this season. It’s going to be hard work.”