Seoane ahead of #BSCB04: 'We won't get much space'

The intensive battle in the Europa League has left its mark on the Black and Red squad. Gerardo Seoane at the pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon: "Up to now there are no announcements about new injuries. A few players had a couple of knocks yesterday so that the availability of certain players is not yet certain. We'll have to wait and see how good recovery is up to Sunday."

Striker Lucas Alario remains a doubt. The Argentinian was on the bench against Real Betis. "It's a bit of a balancing act with him." He's "been carrying physical problems around" for some time, added Seoane. The 29-year-old therefore had reduced training on Friday. "We're trying to do everything to see that our players remain fit and healthy – that's the most important thing. If there is progress with Lucas then he will be in the squad on Sunday."

praise for attackers

Head coach Seoane expressed his satisfaction with the performance of his team against the side from Seville. "Yesterday was a good example of how all players play for the team, and how much defensive work the front players did too. That gives us an incredible boost."

The Swiss boss is expecting that same commitment for the Bundesliga clash with Hertha Berlin. In the side currently lying twelfth in the league, Seoane sees "a team that is extremely compact, strong in challenges and physical. We won't get much space and will therefore have to be fully committed in challenges."

1,000 Fans from Leverkusen

For the first time this season, fans will again be permitted in the East Stand at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin for the game against the Werkself. A total of 37,500 spectators will be at the match in accordance with the 3G rule and Lukas Hradecky and Co. can look forward to the backing of around 1,000 Black and Red supporters in the stands – and everyone is hoping for another three points ahead of the international break.