'We have to provide the answers tomorrow!'

They both expressed their condolences and sympathy for the victims and the bereaved following yesterday's incidents at the Christmas market in Berlin. After that, the press conference started ahead of the final Bundesliga game of the year away to FC Köln (Wednesday, 20.00 CET, RheinEnergie Stadium).

"We should look forward to the derby – even though we played badly on Sunday," said Schmidt. In the short time between the two matches it is down to the boss to help the players regain their confidence in preparation for the Rhineland clash. "Tomorrow we have to prove we're in a position to show a different side," demanded Schmidt.

Köln strengths

At the stadium in Cologne, just 14 kilometres away from Leverkusen, the Werkself can expect to face an opponent that has struggled recently but are having their best season in 25 years. There are good reasons for that as Schmidt explained: "The work at FC Köln is outstanding and the team is good. They are very solid at the back and their strikers have been scoring for fun this season." It will not be easy for Bayer 04.

However, his team have often come through situations like this in good shape. "Of course, nobody's happy about the current situation so we have to provide the answers tomorrow," he said. The best way to achieve that is as a united team showing tactical discipline. Stefan Kießling and Benjamin Henrichs face late fitness tests to determine their availability for the squad.

Bayer 04 will have the support of 3,100 fans in Cologne.