Gerardo Seoane on…
…. the strengths of Sardar Azmoun: Of course, we don't want to leave our power up front on the bench but we always have to look at the challenges presented by our opponents. In an away game in Dortmund, the first thing is to close down space, and at home against Augsburg we primarily think about attacking moves. But Sardar is an experienced player who is good at assessing the season ahead of us. Last season he was possibly lacking something in finishing due to his physical level but we saw the qualities he has in the second half of the game against BVB and how he can be effective in well structured positional play. He has a presence in the box, is good in the air and good at making runs. He is also very much capable of bringing Patrik (Schick ed.) into the game.
…. option of playing Andrey Lunev: Andrey will not need much time to settle in given his experience. Everybody is aware that Andrey will play at the weekend so everybody can be prepared for that and adjust to him. It's important he feels good, he knows what's expected and we give him a rhythm for the game. I'm convinced he will produce a good performance.
… other potential transfers in and out: We currently have 26 outfield players and three goalkeepers in our squad. One thing is fundamental for me: As long as a player is here I will work with him as with everybody else. A lot can't be planned in football so, as a coach, I can't take a break but instead I have to and want to take everybody with me. That's also important for energy within the group so that everybody feels they have a chance and are able to use it. We don't have any players who don't give 100 per cent. They are all good lads.
… communication within the team: I think everybody can take a step forwards in communication. We have promoted that since we've been here with lots of discussions and relaxed games and through that we primarily want to give young players the awareness that it's incredibly important for them to express themselves vocally. Of course, it's also a question of character and everybody has a different personality but you can always develop it. It's not primarily about leadership but rather coaching of my teammates. We want to get that out of the players.
