Hjulmand ahead of #B04WOB: ‘Attack and attack the table’

"Of course, we assessed and reflected on the past weeks and games during the international break," said Kasper Hjulmand at the pre-match press conference on the morning of Good Friday, while also making it clear: "Every game is hugely important. Our goal for the run-in is clear: We want to attack and attack the table."

Looking at the table and the next opponents from Wolfsburg, who are currently in 17th place, the Dane added: "Of course, they’ve had problems this season, but they often play better than their position in the table currently suggests." Dieter Hecking has been at the helm of VfL, experiencing their worst Bundesliga season to date with just 21 points from 27 matches, since the beginning of March. But even under Wolfsburg’s 2015 Pokal-winning coach, the Wolves are still winless and have now gone ten league games without a victory.

"work in even greater detail"

The final pre-match training session on Friday afternoon is the first in Leverkusen this week for the majority of the Bayer 04 players who have been on international duty. Players like Exequiel Palacios (Argentina) and Christian Kofane (with Cameroon in Australia) have long journeys behind them, Patrik Schick secured the coveted World Cup ticket with Czechia through two intense duels including extra time and penalty shoot-outs. "Today we will discuss what's best for the team tomorrow in terms of personnel," explained Hjulmand, who said with a view to the upcoming regular schedule: "We'll have more training time together from next week, which will allow us to work with the team on our principles and processes in even greater detail."

Duo back – Saison over for Terrier

Hjulmand reported the international players had all returned fit and well. The 53-year-old can also again rely on the services of the recovered Loïc Badé and Eliesse Ben Seghir. Not available on Saturday, however, are Jarell Quansah after his minor injury from the last match in Heidenheim and Aleix Garcia, who is serving a one-match ban. Hjulmand also announced the withdrawal of Martin Terrier who suffered a thigh injury against FC Heidenheim.

A home win against Wolfsburg would secure important points for the Werkself, currently in sixth place, and lay down a marker in the race for one of the four Champions League places.