Feldkirchen Day 7: Hoffenheim players back on the pitch

With Andreas Ibertsberger and Gylfi Sigurdsson being the only absent players from training, the rest of the 24 man squad engaged in a little 12 v 12 match. Lots of elements that define Hoffenheim's style of play were practiced – running, quick reactions, fast shifts from defence to offence and putting aggressive pressure on the opponent. Running exercises took place in between the games. “Stani” appeared satisfied with what he saw and decided to cancel the final lap for the players and instead gave them a short drinking break. Well necessary, considering the 30°C temperatures.

In the afternoon the team was split into three groups each containing eight players. The strain was immense as each group faced off against each other in two six minutes long halves.

Sigurdsson and Ibertsberger have individual training

While the majority of the team was on the pitch working hard on improving their game, Sigurdsson and Ibertsberger were working hard on their comeback. Sigurdsson, who suffered a knock to his knee during the 0-0 draw with Rapid Wien on Sunday, was in a session with Athleticism-Coach Yannick Obenauer. “I feel better by the day, but I still have minor pains,” said the Icelander. Obenauer added: “Gylfi worked very well today. I'm quite sure that he will return the team within the next few days.” Christof Elser, also Athleticism-Coach, meanwhile worked with Andreas Ibertsberger on the adjacent football pitch on some basics. “He is feeling less and less pain by the day and already able to work with the ball again,” explained Elser, who was just as optimistic as his colleague Obenauer: “Andi will be back in normal training by the end of the week.”