In top form: Kevin Behrens and Rani Khedira from Union Berlin Photo: dpa/picture-alliance
By Robert Matiebel
The Iron Ones drive from Köpenick to Charlottenburg with great self-confidence. Vice-captain Rani Khedira (29): “If you get six points in the new year, that’s a dream start. We want to follow up straight away.”
Not much speaks for a Hertha victory at the moment. Nevertheless, Khedira warns: “Derby and away is difficult. We mustn’t let what Hertha plays or does get too close to us. We have to look after ourselves.”
There are currently no injuries in Köpenick and only luxury problems. Coach Urs Fischer (56) has to choose between Christopher Trimmel (35) and Josip Juranovic (27) at the back right. Captain Trimmel stayed out after two assists against Hoffenheim (3:1) in Bremen. In return, Celtic Glasgow third-placed Juranovic made a strong debut (one assist).
At the front, Fischer should let go of Kevin Behrens (31) instead of Jordan Siebatcheu (26). As the front crowbar, Behrens repeatedly caused unrest in Bremen and scored the winning goal. The competition makes Union better.
The new midfield signing of Aissa Laidouni (26/Ferencvaros Budapest) is another alternative. The Tunisian World Cup participant is the Irons’ third winter signing, but will not be in the squad yet.
Manager Oliver Ruhnert (51) on Laidouni: “His box-to-box game, his intensity and his understanding of the game will help us bring more qualities into our game.”