“We always play to win”

The season is coming to a close and Hertha’s injury list continues to grow. The Hertha players have fought through their packed schedule and now have a chance to secure survival on matchday 33 at home 1. FC Köln despite nine definite absentees. Head coach Pál Dárdai isn’t allowing himself to stress about the players missing and is fully confident in the remainder of the squad. “I know our lads from the academy well from when they have trained and played against the first team. We will be able to fill our squad with good players still. We also have top fit substitutes, who want a chance to impress,” explained the Hungarian. Dárdai was also clear about the team’s aim for Saturday’s clash with the Billy Goats: “A point may be enough for us to stay up, but we always play to win. We’re also on a nice unbeaten run and don’t want to lose again this season. That’s our aim!”

Friedrich “proud of every individual” – but wary of a “complicated game”

Arne Friedrich also underlined the confidence he has in the team and the coaching staff. “Not all of our games after the quarantine have been great, but we’ve been successful and we’ve grown as a team. I’m proud of every single individual,” said the former Hertha captain. At the same time, the sporting director was quick to point out that everyone needs to stay focused. “We need to be careful. It will be a complicated game against Köln. We want to pick up the required points in this dangerous situation!”