Marvin Ducksch in the mixed zone

The Green-Whites are eager to pick up their first points of the season on Saturday afternoon, and have worked relentlessly over the past week of training to prepare for the fixture. “That’s just what football’s like”, Ducksch admitted, “if we’re too nice to each other, it won’t get us anywhere. We’re fired up at training and all share the desire to win. If anyone took it a step too far, we’d discuss it together in the changing room to avoid any tension and keep the team’s unity intact.”

The 29-year-old is currently part of an experienced group of players and is keen to help the young players fit in. “I can personally say that I found it helpful that a couple of big names supported me back when I was younger,” Ducksch explains. “As a result, I see it as my job to help them, but also to tell them when something isn’t so good. I’ve been trying to help out Leon Opitz, but he’s aware that I’m not the only guy he can talk to.”

Training during the week is comprised of lots of puzzle pieces that are crucial in contributing towards success at the weekend. Even though Freiburg are the favourites in many people’s eyes, Werder’s number 7 is heading into the game full of confidence. “We know that it’s going to be tough there and that they’re a very variable side. We are going to have to adjust to playing against a back-four and a back-five,” Ducksch says. “If we are able to produce our best performance, then it should be a pretty even game. Despite our opposition’s quality, we have a good opportunity to pick up our first three points of the season.”

Tuesday training >>>

Füllkrug is being rested, Salifou is involved in parts, while Woltemade is back in full training ????#werderpic.twitter.com/uk6RhyTKeQ

— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) August 22, 2023