Interview with Andreas Ibertsberger

Andreas, Hoffenheim have failed to win in any of their last four matches. Why can the fans expect to return to winning ways against Borussia Mönchengaldbach on Sunday?

Because we are focusing, once again, on our strengths and want to get back to playing our own style of football. If we manage to do that, then we will win against Gladbach.

How strong do you think the "foals" are?

Gladbach have not had an easy couple of weeks. We are expecting to come up against a team who want to win all 3 points. I'd imagine that they will be content allowing us to take control of the match and play the role of playmakers. That's why we have to concentrate, play the ball consistently and take our chances when they come. It's important, though, that we play well without the ball and, as in previous matches, win the ball higher up the pitch.

Gladbach has shown two very different sides to their game so far this season. Most notably the 0-7 drubbing of Stuttgart. Does that play on your minds or are past results irrelevant?

It's not irrelevant at all and we will certainly be watching all of Gladbach's matches including their win over Stuttgart. They have strong players and by no means can we underestimate them. We all know that already. First and foremost, though, we need to concentrate on ourselves and playing the way we know we can.

Considering your recent results, has the international break come at a good time for the team?

We'll see if the break has benefitted us this weekend. Because of the international matches it has been fairly quiet in training this week. We had several different training stations, but I personally thought it was a lot of fun and everyone did a great job in taking part. We hope that all the lads come back healthy. We've all got to start concentrating on the upcoming match, though, and make sure we are ready.

Do you think there a chance we could see you in the starting line-up?

I'm not expecting to play, but of course I hope I do. I'm aiming to prove myself in training and then it's up to the trainer to decide.