Despite the hectic fixture list Bayer 04 are trying to savour the victory over Werder Bremen. After training on Wednesday the players and staff dined together and the atmosphere was, of course, suitably enjoyable.

While the media are talking about the Werkself’s chances of lifting the title ahead of the home game against VfL Wolfsburg, Bayer 04 refuse to get carried away and are simply enjoying their current position in the Bundesliga. Bayer 04 coach Bruno Labbadia does not consider an element of euphoria to contradict this: “Euphoria doesn’t do any harm but it also doesn’t mean that have achieved anything yet. We deserve to be where we are; no more and less. But you need joy and enthusiasm to to be able to come out on top. A joyful approach is part of our game.”

Looking for a successful conclusion

Bayer 04’s way of playing football has brought to the top of the Bundesliga and secured three wins in a row. Bayer are looking to achieve a successful conclusion to this hectic week of fixtures in Friday’s game against VfL Wolfsburg.

If Wednesday was a day for recovering from the encounter with Werder Bremen, attention has now moved to impending visit of the Wolves to the BayArena. It could be said that Bruno Labbadia has the small problem of an abundance of riches ahead of this match. The coach has the choice between Pirmin Schwegler and the fit again Tranquillo Barnetta on the left wing.

Decision awaits for left wing slot

“Firstly, I was delighted that Pirmin had a great game. Barnetta was fit for the Bremen game but Pirmin deserved to keep his place and also we had the benefit of using Barnetta’s dynamism from the bench. We’ve got two very good alternatives and have yet to make a decision,” explains Labbadia and adds that consideration will be given to what is best for the team as a whole against Wolfsburg.

Ahead of matchday 11, VfL Wolfsburg currently lie in eighth place in the table. The Wolves enjoyed a confidence boost on Tuesday night when they beat Borussia Mönchengladbach 3-0. VfL have, however, not been able to win on their travels so far this season. But Bayer 04 coach Bruno Labbadia is obviously aware of the strengths of the Wolfsburg side.

Waiting game expected

“Wolfsburg are a team that is extremely disciplined and full of running. On top of that, they have a very strong line-up. Nevertheless, I was surprised when they qualified for Europe last season. In terms of opposition, they are as strong as Bremen, but Wolfsburg do put greater emphasis on the defensive side of their game.”

The coach is therefore expecting a waiting game and hopes that the euphoric atmosphere amongst the fans will spread to the players on the pitch.

Probable line-ups

Leverkusen: Adler - Castro, Friedrich, Henrique, Kadlec - Rolfes - Renato Augusto, Vidal, Schwegler - Kießling, Helmes

Wolfsburg: Benaglio - Riether, Madlung, Barzagli, M. Schäfer - Josué - Hasebe, Gentner - Misimovic - Grafite, Dzeko