Andreas Lambertz: "Eager to see the atmosphere in Sinsheim"

Hello Andreas. When you say Andreas Lambertz, the first thought that comes to mind is Fortuna Düsseldorf. Do you think that's an exaggeration?

Naturally there's a strong bond between myself and Fortuna. After all, I've been a player here since 2002. Our club does have a 118-year history though, and there are a number of other names involved in that. I want to try and emulate them whilst making sure I don't inflate myself.

The end of the season will mark your tenth year at Fortuna, with one more year left on your contract. Can you even imagine playing for another team?

I've made no secret of the fact that I love it here. We've come from the lower tiers back in the Bundesliga where the best 18 teams in the country compete and I've been here throughout the journey. There's an ingrained affinity with the club. I know my capabilities, the fans know my style and they value it. It all fits together.

As you said, you played for Fortuna in the fourth division. Did you think then that you would play in the Bundesliga with the same club?

If I could claim that I honestly believed that we would play in the Bundesliga then I would have been mature enough to be a medical specialist! Of course not, I just dreamt of it. I guess that makes it all the more beautiful that we are where we are today; in the first division, where so many people have seen us before.

In Düsseldorf everyone calls you “Lumpi.” Where does that nickname come from?

I have a former teammate Michael Rösele to thank for that. We played together in my first senior year and that's when I was called Lampi. He wanted to spread this nickname across the world and at some point it took on a life of its own. Since then I've got used to it and don't even respond to Andreas or Andi now.

What are you expecting from the game in Hoffenheim. A lot of people are talking about it being like a cup final.

I am expecting an extremely intensive game as both clubs need points. I am eager to see what the atmosphere in Sinsheim will be like, especially as it's the first time I will have played there. I do know though that our fans will also be celebrating their debut there and as a result will be just as vocal. As they always are.

Where do you think Hoffenheim's strengths are?

Their season hasn't gone to plan but I think the club still has big ambitions. We are going to face a side with a lot of individual quality which, on their day, is translated into quality football.

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