“Our plan is to win” | OneFootball

Ahead of the home game against Hamburger SV, Albert Riera discusses team news, the week’s training, the goalkeeper position and the aim for the match.

After the 1-1 draw at Augsburg, Eintracht return to action at home to Hamburger SV on Saturday 2 May at 15:30 CEST. The Eagles are aiming to hold on to seventh place with a victory at Deutsche Bank Park.At the pre-match press conference, head coach Albert Riera spoke about…

… team news: “Nnamdi Collins and Jens Grahl are out injured, Ritsu Doan is suspended. Everyone else is in contention for the squad.”

… the state of play: “Our plan is to win this game. I don’t speak publicly about tactics because I don’t want to give information to the opponent. Football is not pressure, it’s a beautiful game – and the target to play in Europe next season is beautiful. We have three finals, three different games – and as I always say, every game demands different personnel.” 

… the reports in recent days: “The headlines [about his relationship with Jonathan Burkardt] are total nonsense! When he was on the bench, on the next day he was training like crazy – and I said to him, this is what I wanted: a reaction. We have no problems or issues in this building. We have a fantastic relationship with each other, but I can’t influence what happens outside. This is not a bar or a circus; it’s a very serious, professional football club. Our loyal fans, who love this club, deserve to know the truth – I will not accept lies. There’s nothing bad, it’s just not true. I am protecting my players, it’s a young group. I can’t promise wins but I can promise you: as long as I’m here, every player will give 100 percent for this club and for our target.”  

… the week’s training: “My style needs time, I’ve always said that. Last week I said that it was the best week of training since I’ve been here. And it was the same again this week.” 

… the goalkeeper position: “Michael Zetterer is fit to play, Kaua Santos is also back in the squad.”