Schmidt: “The three points are incredibly important”
First Team
30.01.2020, 13:39
We’re back in the WWK Arena for Bundesliga Matchday 20 after last weekend’s defeat in Berlin for a “home challenge”, as Martin Schmidt describes it. The Fuggerstädter will be looking for their first three points of the year on Saturday 1st February (15:30 CET) as SV Werder Bremen come to town.
“The three consecutive defeats have annoyed us,” said Martin Schmidt after watching his side fall to defeat at the hands of Union (2-0), Dortmund (5-3) and Leipzig (3-1). “Of course there are teams that are better than us. But in Berlin we didn’t show the right belief or mentality. The opposition should never show more passion than us.” The task for the next game is clear: Winning against Bremen, whilst showing a lot more “desire”.
Despite the visitors sitting in 17th place in the table, it’s by no means an easy win for FCA. Likewise, Martin Schmidt’s side cannot afford to be complacent due to the injury problems faced by the Green Whites. There will also be a familiar face out on the pitch, as former Augsburg defender Kevin Vogt joined Werder Bremen during the January transfer market, which Schmidt identifies as a strong defensive reinforcement. The Swiss coach also warns his side against Werder’s effective combination play, whilst also pointing out gaps for his side to exploit.
Keeping distance in the table, getting back on track
Schmidt is preparing his side for making use of these gaps. Other than the absences of Sergio Córdova (recently returned to training after an ankle injury) and Julian Schieber (muscular calf problems), the head coach has a, “very fit and committed group of players” at his disposal. Having an almost fully fit squad available hugely benefits their chances of earning, “an incredibly important three points against one of our direct competitors.” However, a win isn’t just about keeping their distance ahead of Werder in the table. A victory would also serve to “get the team back on track” and, “reward them for their hard work,” Schmidt emphasised. To summarise: Augsburg want to get back to winning ways on Saturday and celebrate with their fans once again.
