Schonlau fit for the derby? Walter doesn't want to "rush things"
In the explosive city duel with FC St. Pauli, Hamburger SV may be able to rely on the services of captain Sebastian Schonlau again despite his long injury layoff. "It's important that we are very cautious with Bascho. Nevertheless, he is a very important player for us. He's our captain, my extended arm," said coach Tim Walter on Wednesday. The defensive boss has been back in team training with the second division club since this week. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to play at the Millerntor Stadium.
Nevertheless, the 48-year-old made it clear ahead of the 110th edition of the city derby on Friday (18:30/Sky): "We don't want to rush things." Schonlau has been plagued by calf problems for months. The recently absent full-back Ignace Van der Brempt (torn muscle fiber) could return. Center-back Dennis Hadzikadunic returns after a yellow card suspension. Only key players Ludovit Reis (shoulder) and Anssi Suhonen (fractured fibula) are still unavailable.
The derby not only has a prestigious character. It is also an absolute top game. Ahead of the clash in the Millerntor Stadium, which is sold out with more than 29,000 fans, HSV are three points behind the league leaders from the Kiez. Coach Walter is "not worried" whether there is a favorite or not. "It's just important to show emotion and will - and still keep a cool head," said the coach.
Despite his long injury layoff, there's a possibility that Captain Sebastian Schonlau could return for Hamburger SV in their Bundesliga 2 derby against FC St. Pauli. Coach Tim Walter emphasized the importance of handling Schonlau's return with caution due to his ongoing calf problems.
In the preparations for the city derby, player Ignace Van der Brempt, who has been absent due to a torn muscle fiber, might be able to return to the team, providing a boost for Hamburger SV.
Source: www.dpa.com
