The surprisingly strong Bundesliga newcomer 1. FC Heidenheim is approaching the start of the new football year with maximum composure.
“We know how explosive the game is,” said coach Frank Schmidt (50) before the game against second-to-last 1. FC Köln on Saturday (January 13, 2024, 3:30 p.m./Sky).
A clear swipe at 1. FC Köln: “I’ve heard it before…”
In this regard, he allowed himself a small quip: “We hear from Cologne that Heidenheim absolutely has to be beaten, but we have heard that several times before…”
Only eight of 16 opponents succeeded; FCH, in ninth place in the table, has collected 20 points, twice as many points as FC or fellow promoted team Darmstadt 98.
Is the second half of the season a sure-fire success? “We have made it a point to carry on in exactly the same way,” said Schmidt: “We have to remain persistent, courageous and hungry. And have the humility that things can move quickly in the Bundesliga, even in the other direction.”
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The coach did not skimp on praise for his players. “It was impressive how quickly the team got back into it,” he said about the restart after the short winter break. He doesn’t need new professionals: “I have no wishes and I’m happy with my squad.”
In Cologne, Schmidt expects “an extremely hot atmosphere, a team that will give everything and receive a tremendous amount of support from outside – but that’s exactly what makes it.” He has to do without Christian Kühlwetter, who is currently suffering from a gastrointestinal virus. (sid)
2024-01-11 20:23:32
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