Tobias Strobl returns to TSG: “I'm going to do my job”

Tobi, you made your debut in the Bundesliga for Hoffenheim in 2012 but went on loan last summer. How would you describe the last year?

It's been a super year for my development. Between myself, Lehmann and Matuschyk we managed the defensive midfield position well and have grown used to the game as a result.

So that means you are at a different level to last year then?

Absolutely!

Cologne is a busy city with a lot of influences for a young player. Does football take a side seat in that setting?

In Cologne there was certainly a danger of being drawn away from football. We were really disciplined though, so our focus was always on the football. There was also the opportunity to do a few things in Heidelberg as well.

Do you find it easier to focus on football here in Hoffenheim?

There is one big advantage: I'm not known everywhere here. In Cologne, it was difficult to find some time to yourself. Here, I can enjoy my privacy.

Have you already talked to Markus Gisdol about where he sees you fitting in?

Not yet, but I expect to soon. What I can say though is that the manager's idea of how to play the game is the same as my notion of the game. Pressing aggressively, winning the ball quickly – those are the things that are part of my game.

Could you picture yourself playing in a different position?

At youth level I also played centre and right back but I feel at home in defensive midfield.

What are your strengths and where do you feel needs improving?

I think I have room for improvement in my build-up play, as well as my eye for the game. I will need that to be stronger in attack. What I can do really well is win the ball back defensively but I can always get better.

When you were in the U23 team, Kai Herdling nicknamed you “The Cox”. If you had to pick something out now, what would you choose?

(laughs) Just Tobi. That's enough. I'm not the type that needs to put themselves out there. I'm just back there, doing my job. I'll let others do the talking.