Thursday was a busy one on the Weser. The official unveiling of new signing Skelly Alvero had barely finished, but the next press conference quickly followed suit, this time with Ole Werner looking ahead to Saturday’s away game. The head coach was of course asked about his brand-new midfielder, but also gave his thoughts on the duel with struggling 1. FSV Mainz 05.
The boss couldn’t help but be imposed by the physical presence of the 2.02-metre-tall Alvero as he took over from him at the podium. Surprisingly though, it’s more the Frenchman’s technical ability that makes him stand out. “Skelly is someone whose qualities are with the ball at his feet. Despite his size, he is technically strong and is a great passer,” said Werner, who hopes those attributes will give him the extra versatility he’s been after. After all, Werder’s new number 28 can be used flexibly in the centre of the park.
That versatility could already come to the fore on Saturday, with the coach suggesting there’s every chance that Alvero will be in the squad. While a carnival atmosphere awaits the Green-Whites in Mainz as local festivities ramp up ahead of Lent, there’s not been much for the 05ers to shout about lately. However, Werner will still head into the meeting with the side sitting 17th in the table with the necessary respect. “It is a tough away game, one that will challenge us in every aspect. Mainz play and defend with a great deal of organisation,” explained the coach. “We know what we need to do, and now it’s up to us to produce it on the pitch again.”
????️ Ole Werner on the squad:
— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) February 1, 2024
"It shouldn't look too different to last week's. We assume that Agu and Stage will be back in training tomorrow as normal. If everything goes to plan, Alvero will be involved too. Things are also looking good for Weiser.#werder#m05svwpic.twitter.com/rjCvn8QYHK
