“I’m always there when the team needs me”
Peter Pekarík has been at Hertha for nine years and the 34-year-old has now agreed to stay for a tenth! On Monday, the Slovakian was back on the training ground for the first time after EURO 2020, having completed performances tests on Sunday. “It was great to spend the first half of the session with the lads, then I completed the rest with fitness coach Hendrik Vieth,” reported the defender. Pre-season will now begin for ‘Peka’, who is known for his hard work, professionalism and great attitude. Even on his first training session back, he was one of the last players to leave the pitch. “There has been a lot of change again and we’ll need time, but there’s quality in the team and we need to show that,” said Hertha’s longest-serving player. Pekarík also discussed...
...his contract extension: I spoke to the club about a new contract before EURO 2020 and it was basically done before I left for the tournament. I’m obviously really happy and extremely proud to have been a part of the Hertha family for almost 10 years. I would like to thank everyone at the club and all the fans. I feel really at home here.
[>]I’m obviously really happy and extremely proud to have been a part of the Hertha family for almost 10 years. I would like to thank everyone at the club and all the fans. I feel really at home here.[<]
...the old and new season: Last season was tough for the team. For me personally, though, it was one of my best in the Bundesliga. Including the Pokal, I scored four goals overall, which is my new personal best. As a result, I wasn’t unsatisfied with my personal return, but our performance as a team wasn’t good enough and that’s more important. I want to continue being an option for the coach in the new season. I’m fit, motivated and will give my all. I want to help the team with my experience and be there whenever I’m needed.
...the team: I’ve been back for two days now. There have been a few changes and we’ll need time, but there’s quality in the team and we need to show that.
...the first sessions after his return: I completed the performance tests on Sunday with Hendrik Vieth, that was all okay. It was great to spend the first half of the session with the lads, then I completed the rest with our fitness coach. Everything’s going perfectly – I’m just taking it step by step.
...his body: I’ve been doing a lot for my body for a long time now, especially before and after training. I’ve also adjusted my diet accordingly. At my age, you have to focus a bit more on your recovery, but aside from that I’m feeling good and fit, even after my holiday.
...his holiday: I spent the first week in Slovakia with my family there, who I hadn’t seen in almost a year because of corona. I really enjoyed that time with them. I then spent the rest of my time off in Antalya with my wife.
...retirement: I don’t have an exact plan of when I want to finish my career. As long as I’m still fit, I will carry on playing. I’m focusing on the here and now, on this season. I’ve got plenty of time to think about what comes afterwards. I want to concentrate on this season and support the team.
[>]I’m focusing on the here and now, on this season. I’ve got plenty of time to think about what comes afterwards.[<]
…EURO 2020: A European Championship is a very special time for every player. I enjoyed it very much, even though we lacked that little bit of luck when it counted. We lost to a penalty ten minutes before the end against Sweden and if we had picked up a point in that game, we would have made it to the round of 16. The third group stage match was a different level for our team though. Spain showed the quality that they have; they have a super squad with some brilliant players. It’s a big shame we didn’t progress, but it was a great experience for our national team.
…his future with Slovakia: I want to keep on playing at international level. I feel very comfortable playing for Slovakia and it’s always a very special thing for me to represent my country. I have already picked up over 100 caps which means a lot to me. I want to continue to help the team in the future as well.
[>]I want to keep on playing at international level. I feel very comfortable playing for Slovakia and it’s always a very special thing for me to represent my country.[<]