By Carsten Priefer
Intensive care, clear behavior, straddling in between – that’s how Dodi Lukebakio got back on track.
From problem case to Super-Dodi! All Hertha coaches have failed because of Dodi Lukebakio (25).
New coach Sandro Schwarz (43) has turned the former problem child into one of the best wingers in the league. High performer and top Hertha goalscorer (4 goals) – the Belgian international’s form curve is rising steeply thanks to black.
Trainer Sandro Schwarz has been talking a lot to Lukebakio since day one, getting him on track Photo: picture alliance / SvenSimon
How did the coach manage that?
Schwarz: “It’s intensive support from day one. Starting with behaviors and rules that we have defined, how he has to move on the pitch and behave off it. An important issue in support is also the willingness to overcome resistance.”
Whereas Lukebakio used to appear listless after unsuccessful dribbles and often refused defensive tasks, he is now fully at the service of the team.
Schwarz gives the reasons for this: “If Dodi did a bit less in preparation, we intervened. The behaviors we discussed have been re-examined ever since. It’s also the close coaching demeanor that he needs. If it’s a meter too little or the switching phases aren’t what we’d like – then we straddle the gap.” With success!
Lukebakio: “Every striker wants to score goals, has more fun on offense than on defence. No striker can say he only enjoys defending – that would be a lie. But I’m ready for it now and I have to show good body language. I learn something new in every training session and always give my best.”
Winger Dodi Lukebakio was loaned to Wolfsburg last season Photo: picture alliance / augenklick/Ma
Schwarz supports Lukebakio, who also has a contract until 2024 next to the training ground, explains: “There are often one-on-one interviews and individual video analysis, but it’s not over-care. I’m clear in the conversations, but not a senior teacher, then Dodi would also close relatively quickly. He’s fun to work with because you always feel like he’s giving something back to you.”
That’s at Lukebakio in the moment to see clearly.