Kasper Hjulmand on the team from the capital, who are currently eleventh in the Bundesliga: "We're expecting a strong opponent - they're strong in running and tackling. We therefore know exactly what a big task awaits us, but we are ready," said the Dane.
When asked about the potential for improvement and development in his team, especially in his back three, the 53-year-old had the following to say: "The lads are starting to find their feet and, above all, are becoming more flexible and lively in their positional play. We were a bit too stiff at the start. We weren’t proactive. We were too far away from our opponents, especially on the last line. Now I've already seen a clear improvement from the game at St. Pauli to PSV Eindhoven and we're developing step by step," said Hjulmand, adding: "We have individually strong players, so I sense that there's still a lot of potential in our teamwork."
Andrich and Vázquez back
Hjulmand can count on both Robert Andrich as well as Lucas Vázquez again. Axel Tape, Patrik Schick and Exequiel Palacios have been ruled out. The Argentinian World Cup winner has extended his contract at Bayer 04 to 2030. Hjulmand: "When two parties have been working together for so long and then decide to continue on this path together, it's a very positive sign for the joint work. Pala has increased his role here at the club over the years. He has international experience, knows Leverkusen and is both a quality player and an outstanding personality. I can hardly wait to see him back on the pitch."
sold-out BayArena, Hjulmand: "great anticipation"
The BayArena will be sold out tomorrow with a crowd of 30,210 spectators including 2,150 away fans travelling from Berlin. Fans who cannot be at the game can watch it on Sky and in highlights on DAZN. As usual, Werkself Radio will also be broadcasting, with commentary provided by Niko Hartmann and Florian Bechholz. Hjulmand concluded by saying: "We're really looking forward to the game in front of our home crowd. Above all, we want to go into the international break with a positive feeling - the team and I as coach, of course. Because, as a coach, I hate having to wait 14 days for the next game. That's why tomorrow is a very important game."
