Jovetić returns to take on Freiburg

A less than optimal mood is to be expected after a heavy defeat, but the only way to deal with it is to dust yourself down and do better next time. Tuesday at Schenckendorffplatz saw a lot of hard work. "Training is a good starting point. It's important that everyone works together, coaches and helps each other," said Pál Dárdai, underlining what he expects from his team. The team will also undergo a detailed assessment of the most recent game. "Against opponents like Leipzig, we can only look better if everyone works together as one and stays compact. If you have seen evidence of this unity, it’s hard to understand how a result like last weekend can come about," said the head coach.

Hertha will have reinforcements as they head into Saturday’s home game against SC Freiburg (02/10/21, 15:30 CEST), as Stevan Jovetić returns to contention to take on Christian Streich’s side. The 31-year-old completed an almost 100-minute long session along with his teammates at the beginning of the week. “We’re pleased that he’s back with us. He has to get through the week well and work hard. It’s important that he can sprint comfortably,” said Dárdai.

Boyata close to comeback

There was more good news for the head coach, as captain Dedryck Boyata trained on again for the first time with fitness coach Hendrik Vieth. "There’s a chance that he could play against Freiburg. He has enough experience to assess whether he can play," said Dárdai. Deyovaisio Zeefuik also trained separately from the team. "His situation is similar to Dedo’s," said Dárdai. Jordan Torunarigha, Lukas Klünter, Myziane Maolida and Linus Gechter, will all be forced to watch from the sidelines. "The game comes too soon for them," explained the 45-year-old.

The team have a week of hard work to prepare for the weekend’s game – a Wednesday double shift and further sessions on Thursday and Friday. A successful performance on Matchday 7 would definitely contribute to a much better mood in camp before the upcoming international break. After Saturday, the 'Old Lady' will not be in action until 16th October in Frankfurt. "We have to pick up points. That's always important so that we can concentrate on our work during the international break," said Dárdai, before departing towards the dressing room with a loud "Ha, Ho, He.”