New regular goalkeeper Zetterer: Relationship with Pavlenka "good"
Werder Bremen's new regular goalkeeper Michael Zetterer says he still has a good relationship with rival Jiri Pavlenka. "My relationship with Pavlenka is good," said the 28-year-old during a media conference on Tuesday. "We are both very fair to each other," he added. The relationship is "no different to before".
Czech international goalkeeper Pavlenka was out injured in October due to an adductor injury. Zetterer stood in for his rival with good performances and was promoted to the new number one ahead of the defeat against league leaders Bayer 04 Leverkusen (0:3) at the weekend.
"I know about his situation. If we didn't have a good relationship now, I probably wouldn't care at all," said Zetterer on Pavlenka's situation, who is determined to play in next year's European Championship. But Zetterer also made it clear: "Pavlenka doesn't need any tips from me." After years on the substitutes' bench, the new number one is not in a position to give any advice. "We talk before the game, after the game. I won't reveal the content, but these are normal things."
Goalkeeping coach Christian Vander had told Radio Bremen's regional magazine "buten und binnen" that Pavlenka was "already disappointed". Zetterer, who was an outfield player for a long time in his youth, said that he had also looked at other clubs during his time as second goalkeeper.
Despite his injury, Czech international Jiri Pavlenka continues to follow Werder Bremen's matches in the Bundesliga, showcasing his strong support for his former team and position. In the recent game against league leaders Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Soccer club Werder Bremen's new regular goalkeeper Michael Zetterer showcased his skills, playing an important role in their defense, given Pavlenka's absence.
Source: www.dpa.com
