FIRST TEAM
01/15/2015

Interview with the youngsters: “We were made to feel welcome” - #tsginrsa

Taking part in the winter training camp with the first team isn't a new feeling for Kevin Akpoguma, but the 23-year-old is still delighted to be in Johannesburg. His teammate at youth level Nico Rieble and U19 captain Nicolai Rapp are also happy to be with the first team. In an interview with achtzehn99.de, the trio of youngsters spoke about how the trip to South Africa has been for them.

Nico, how did you find out that you would be flying out with the first team to Johannesburg?

Nico Rieble:Nicolai, Kevin and I found out the same way. Assistant coach Frank Kaspari called us. I think I can speak for all of us when I say that we were delighted to be given the opportunity to join the party.

You fly back to Germany on Saturday. What will you take from the trip to South Africa, Nicolai?

Nicolai Rapp:Obviously a great deal. It's not just a good experience, but also a collection of many great experiences. The flight to South Africa was great, as were the training sessions that followed. My aim was to take everything in and learn as much as possible so I have a lot to take away with me. One of the things that I was happiest about was the welcome I got – you feel like a part of the team very quickly. We were able to speak with the first-team players during the flight and at mealtimes.

Kevin Akpoguma:Feeling part of the team obviously helps. Despite all of the hard work we have been doing, morale has been great in the camp. It's a great thing for a young player to come into.

Nico Rieble:It was really quite easy to integrate ourselves into the team. We have a young squad and many of us share the same interests or have a similar sense of humour. As a result, we settled in quickly and there have been no problems.

How does training with the first team differ from what you are used to?

Kevin Akpoguma:The tempo is much higher; it's tougher mentally and physically. Consequently, it's more important to rest your body in the breaks. Obviously, I've felt the burden but it's okay. I'm here to learn and to continue to develop as a player and will be able to benefit from these experiences over the coming months.

You play another friendly on Friday...

Nicolai Rapp:Yes, we face Kaizer Chiefs in a huge stadium. None of us know whether we'll be playing in the game. I am looking forward to it though. Making an appearance would be a big thing for me.

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