With die Königsblauen fortunes falling fast the heat on Fred Rutten to produce a victory. Upper management are close to caving into supporters demands and rid the manager of his position. With five losses in the previous six matches, along with being ninth in the table, it seems his only chance to survive is to win the final matches before the winter break. The Berliners are playing at the complete opposite of Schalke presently as they have won their previous four Bundesliga matches and a victory will pull them within a single point of first place.
Fred Rutten said of the match:
“We’ll need to keep our shape for the full 90 minutes.”
“Their fighting spirit has been much in evidence in recent games, the lads haven’t let their heads drop”
“We just haven’t had that little bit of luck you need. But I’m convinced it’ll return.”
“We can’t afford to go into the game like madmen and fall into a trap. What’s more important is that we keep our shape from start to finish because Hertha are dangerous on the counter. We also have to be patient. They’re on form at the moment and have been working hard for their points.”
“I hope the fans will back the players for 90 minutes.”
“I understand they’re disappointed but with their support I’m sure we’ll get back on the right track.”
On the injury front Schalke will head into the match without Peter Lovenkrands, Ze Roberto and Albert Streit, with Marcelo Bordon doubtful. Hertha Berlin will be missing Sofian Chahed and Marko Pantelic.
