The word "winter champion" has been dropping more and more in conversation with Roger Schmidt in recent days. The PSV head coach is satisfied with his team's development, but is not yet anticipating things. He looks at it from match to match. 'We will have to show responsibility on the pitch tomorrow,' the German said Saturday afternoon at PSV Campus De Herdgang.
Concentration
Schmidt demands concentration from his team so close to the winter break. "RKC is a dangerous team with good attackers. I expect us to play a game like we have seen many times this season. We will have to be patient, watch out for counters and find our own solutions to create chances. The responsibility in the match will lie with us, I expect."
More often
That has been the case more often this season. Take the game against Fortuna Sittard, earlier this week, as an example. PSV won that one, while Schmidt was able to give some players some rest. "I trust in the players I have at my disposal. We have a good starting position and that tells me we are a good team. We are developing strongly."
Four will not be there
PSV will be unable to call on four injured players on Sunday and possibly next Wednesday. Eran Zahavi, Ryan Thomas, Davy Pröpper and Noni Madueke must miss the 2021 slot. Goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo has recovered from illness. He will be back in the matchday squad on Sunday.