Hjulmand ahead of #B04HSV: 'It's not over yet'

"It's not over yet," stressed Kasper Hjulmand right at the start of his press conference on Friday, referring to the situation in the battle for Champions League qualification. Bayer 04 go into the final day in sixth place with 58 points, three behind VfB Stuttgart and TSG Hoffenheim who are level on points in fourth and fifth place respectively.

Hjulmand: 'show the right mentality and energy'

The Werkself therefore don't have qualification for Europe's premier club competition in their own hands and require both a win over Hamburg as well as defeats for Stuttgart at Eintracht Frankfurt and Hoffenheim at Borussia Mönchengladbach. "Our task is clear: we have to win the match," said Hjulmand. "That's what we've discussed and prepared for all week. I'm 100 percent focused on that. Anything can happen on the final day. It's important that we show the right mentality and energy, in our stadium and in front of our fans."

Hjulmand is without winger Nathan Tella for the season finale against HSV. The Dane would not reveal how he intends to fill the spot. "We have a lot of good options in attack and in the whole team," explained the 54-year-old.

Hjulmand: 'It's not black or white'

When asked for a review of this season, Hjulmand answered: "We've given everything to have a good season. Let's not forget: there were big changes and a lot of new players. Seven first-team regulars left, 15 players without Bundesliga experience came in. It's only natural that things haven't all gone perfectly, and there are always aspects you can work on. There are lots of nuances you have to take into account and respect when analysing a season like this. It's not just black or white. I have great respect for my players and all the staff. And even though I'm never completely satisfied and always see need for improvement, I'm quite happy with the team and the processes that are going on in the background."