The new coach Frank Kramer is convinced that his two strikers Sebastian Polter and Simon Terodde can complement each other well at Bundesliga returnees FC Schalke 04.
Both are powerful strikers with a similar stature and body length, but clear accentuation, the football teacher explained in an interview with “kicker”.
“Sebastian is the type of wrecking ball. The one who wants to wear himself out against the opposing defenders and needs this fight for his game,” said Kramer. “Simon is more of the Schleicher type who doesn’t necessarily look for direct duels with defenders, but has a very good eye for interfaces.” Both shared a room at the training camp in Mittersill, Kramer reported.
Second division record scorer Terodde played a key role in Schalke’s immediate resurgence from the second division. Polter came from VfL Bochum before the season. However, Kramer did not want to give a regular place guarantee.
Schalke 04: Captain election on Thursday
“It’s normal that those who played a significant part in the rise may have a small bonus in case of doubt. Nevertheless, everyone has to deliver top performances and confirm them again and again,” said the 50-year-old. Only the new goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, brought in by Hertha BSC, should be set.
Another indication of the completely open squad is that Schalke 04 has not yet appointed a captain. “In this case, too, the team spirit is paramount for me, which is why we wanted to take enough time to get a feel for the group and the existing hierarchy.” This process is now complete, on Thursday Schalke wants to name the new captain.
The coach is very satisfied with the squad planning itself: “I think that we are pretty much complete at a relatively early stage in terms of the new signings,” said the 50-year-old: “Of course we know that the transfer window is open for a long time. But not much will happen anymore – at least on the access side.”
Kramer emphasized that “the team structure and the team spirit” were of particular importance for the rise of the Royal Blues and that his new team could build on the points. “I quickly noticed that the new players, with their open nature and willingness to integrate, fit in very well with the team and the lads are super accepting of them,” said Mike Büskens’ successor, who will be working as an assistant coach again in the future.