“Germany is stricter“

After spending the majority of your career in Fürth you moved to Hoffenheim in the summer. How have you settled in?

Naturally, it took a bit of time before I settled in. There were so many new things to deal with, for example the huge training facilities and the unfamiliar surroundings. That's changing though, and I'm slowly finding my feet.

What about the personal side of Stephan Schröck in his new home?

The move was smooth and my wife and son are happy here. Everything is fine.

Your first few months here have been intense. Pre-season, a poor start and then Boris Vukcevic's accident. How have the last few months been for you?

I've never had such a long, thorough and intensive pre-season. The start to the season wasn't brilliant but since then we've improved and we must build on our performances. In terms of Boris, we are delighted that he's improving.

At least in a sporting sense things have improved. Seven points from the last four games are acceptable?

Yes, but that's what we have demanded of ourselves after our first few games. We made too many mistakes in those games but we are more stable now and must look to carry on this good form.

Where is home for you, Germany or the Philippines?

I was born in Germany and grew up here with my mother, so Germany is my home.

How do you enjoy being able to regularly dip into the Philippine culture?

I need both cultures even though they are very different. Germany is far stricter than the Philippines and as a result, I enjoy spending time with my mother in the Philippine culture.

You know your upcoming opponents very well. Greuther Fürth will arrive at the Rhein-Neckar-Arena on Friday. What do you think makes them a dangerous opponent?

They have a great rhythm, one that they developed in the Second Division. They are just lacking a breakthrough at the moment but are still dangerous away from home. In any case, we cannot afford to underestimate them.

Is there any reason why you can't take all the points?

We are in better shape and have the better quality. I think we will win the game.

Why should the fans come to the stadium on Friday?

We need their support. Every single fan is important and we are grateful for every one that comes. We want to start a good run of form and support will help us do that.