Sejad Salihovic: “I'm a fast healer”

Hello Sali, how is your knee eight days after the operation?

Extraordinarily good. The op went well and the swelling is pretty much gone. I can hardly feel any pain anymore and can get rid of the crutches in two or three days. When I get on the bike, which is my next step, then we'll see how the knee reacts to the strain.

What have you been doing in rehab?

Not a lot has been possible with the knee. I haven't been able to get into the water to give it some movement either because of the stitches. I've had some lymphatic drainage, trained my upper body and done a few stabilising exercises. I'm very pleased with the progress so far.

Can you say already when the TSG fans can expect to see you back on the pitch?

As soon as possible I hope. I can't say exactly when, but I'm a fast healer. My aim is to be able to help out before the season is over.

The team were able to pick up points against Freiburg this weekend. What did you make of the game from the stands?

It was a real battling performance from everyone. I saw the passion in every individual. To come back after going behind so early is a real testament to their character. We have to call on that attitude in other tough tests.

You went into the dressing room after the match. What was the atmosphere like?

Pretty good of course. You could see the relief and the joy in every face. It was massively important to get the three points in front of our own fans.

There's a trip to Hannover this weekend. What's in it for the team?

If we take the confidence from the Freiburg game, we can get three points off Hannover as well. Even though things aren't going too well for 96 at the moment, they still have a good squad. We have to play with as much passion as possible.