Head coach Roger Schmidt takes his team to Rotterdam's Kuip on Sunday for the league match against Feyenoord. The coach knows what is to be gained. "We have to do everything we can to stay in the race for the highest possible. In addition, we can secure the preliminary round of the Champions League."
Unchanged situation
"The situation has been the same for some time," Schmidt says. "We know what we have to do. We have to win our last three games. The rest we have to wait and see. There is no point in being too preoccupied with the rival. Of course, we still believe in the highest possible. As I said, winning the next three games is the only thing we have in our own hands. We had a good week of training. I am confident."
Strong season
So that triptych begins next Sunday with the away game against Feyenoord. The German coach is impressed with the Rotterdammers. "They are going through a fine season in which they are playing good football. Led by an excellent coach, they are performing as they should. For me, it is no coincidence that they are in the final of the Conference League. We expect a tough match. We have already played at a high level several times this season. We have to bring that up again next weekend."
Physical update
"For André Ramalho, it doesn't look very good," Schmidt began his injury update. "He doesn't have a serious injury, but his ankle is still a little sore. I don't think the chances of him being there on Sunday are too good." The coach also has some good news. "I expect Mario Götze and Noni Madueke back with the matchday squad. Mario has recovered from the flu that affected him last weekend. Noni has been training fully with the group again for several days." Ryan Thomas, Armando Obispo, Carlos Vinicius, Phillipp Mwene, Yorbe Vertessen and Olivier Boscagli are missing from the matchday squad on Sunday.