...pre-season: “It’s good to be back out there. We’ve got a new coaching team and they’re introducing new things to us, which we’re doing our best to put into practice. Every coach has their own idea of how they want to play and coach. We’ve got a lot of time during pre-season and the training camp to work on this.”

...aims for the season: “Our aim can only be promotion. However, we cannot keep saying we have to go up. In my opinion, we should talk less about what we want to achieve and just start working hard. If we do that, we’ll come straight back up.”

...the second division: “Obviously I’d rather be playing against Bayern or Dortmund, but we’ll accept this situation for what it is. The games against HSV and other derbies will be really emotional. I’m somebody that likes to throw themselves in. We can’t change the past, but instead have to shape our own future. There will be some really interesting games this season.”

...his future: “I have a contract and I plan on fulfilling it. I enjoy being a part of this club and this team and I don’t want that to change. My stance is clear. Everybody is responsible for themselves. I’m just pleased to be a part of this team.”

...the transfer market: “I’m not updating the transfer centre every day, however you do hear about the rumours. I think competition can only help. We need a strong team in order to reach our goals, that’s clear. With that in mind, I’m happy about any new signings that strengthen us and if we have lots of quality in the squad.”

...his personal ambitions: “There are different ways of being indispensible. I’m a team player. I’d obviously like to always be playing, but if I play 22 games and we go up, I’d take that every day of the week. I will just try and contribute as best I can.