Weinzierl: “We want to stop that”
FCA coach has almost a full squad to choose from in Bochum
First Team
22.04.2022, 13:07
FC Augsburg are away at VfL Bochum on Sunday (15:30 CEST). Markus Weinzierl’s side are looking to defeat the promoted team for the first time this season having already faced them twice. Weinzierl has almost a full squad at his disposal for matchday 31.
Weinzierl was quick to stress that the players have put the 1-0 defeat to Hertha BSC last time out behind them. “We were obviously disappointed, but we have to look ahead,” demanded the FCA boss. “We played too many long balls against Hertha and didn’t play enough football.” That’s something he wants his side to do better in Bochum on Sunday.
FCA have taken on the promoted side twice already this season. Bochum were victorious on both occasions, albeit narrowly. They won 5-4 on penalties in the DFB-Pokal and 3-2 in Augsburg. “They were two close games,” recalled Weinzierl. “I’m expecting another tight match. We’ll have to do the small things better than they do.” VfL went 1-0 up in both previous meetings, something that FCA will naturally want to avoid this time around. “The side that takes the lead is always in a better position,” stated Weinzierl.
Uduokhai, Caligiuri and Niederlechner all back
FCA’s coach has almost a full squad to choose from on Sunday. Aside from the two long-term absentees Tobias Strobl and Noah Sarenren Bazee (both recovering from a torn ACL), all players are available. Defender Felix Uduokhai (after a muscle injury), midfielder Daniel Caligiuri and attacker Florian Niederlechner (both back after Covid-19 infections) have all trained this week.
With four matchdays to go, Augsburg are four points clear of the relegation play-off position. “The pressure is growing and the games are running out. We need to perform, we know that. The last few weeks have gone pretty well and we have some confidence,” said Weinzierl.
VfL are also playing with real confidence at home right now. They have collected 25 of their 36 points at the Ruhrstadion this season. “They’re really dangerous at home and have put in some great performances with their fans behind them,” analysed Weinzierl. “They’re having a really good season and they could secure safety with a win – we want to stop that!”
