Clemens Fritz speaks to the media on Tuesday

… Leverkusen’s start to the season: “We know of the quality that Leverkusen have in their ranks and they have certainly fallen short of their expectations so far. They have also said this themselves because their standards are a lot higher. It can often be the case that the most dangerous opponents are the ones who aren’t hitting their targets. Either way, we will not underestimate them.”

… How Werder will approach the game: “We will need to push ourselves to the limit and look to hurt Leverkusen on the break. We will also need to take our chances. It goes without saying that a team’s assuredness doesn’t increase after negative results. That’s why it will be important for us to show confidence and courage. This is how we are preparing. This is what you need in order to pick up points in Leverkusen.

… Leverkusen’s Champions League fixture against Atletico Madrid: “Of course we always analyse our opponents. We will have someone in the ground to watch it, not least because it is an interesting game.”

... Romano Schmid within that competition for places: “Romano has taken to the fight from the very first day. He’s come into his own and stepped up in every game. Last weekend he had a bit of a problem getting his feet into the game, but then he improved as the minutes went on. He’s one of those confidence players who improves with success – that’s the way he gains confidence in himself and then puts his best stuff on the pitch. Right now, I think he’s doing pretty well, and I’m also delighted that he’s been named in the Austrian national team.”

… new signing Jens Stage: “We always look closely at the Scandinavian market, because it’s a place we’ve had success in before. Players who arrive from there can usually learn the language a lot quicker and integrate themselves into the squad. That’s also the case with Jens – he can already speak fantastic German. He brings the elements of our game that we’ve been missing in the centre of the park: his dynamism and intensity, as well as his strength in the air. Those are all components that we haven’t had in our squad in midfield.”