From BZ/dpa
Just in time for the extremely important duel in the relegation battle against Hertha BSC, FC Schalke 04’s injury worries are reduced.
Trainer Thomas Rice will most likely have almost his entire squad available at the start of the 28th matchday on Friday evening (8.30 p.m.). Particularly important: Central defenders Moritz Jenzwho had recently been out twice with thigh problems, should be able to play again.
Schalke coach Thomas Reis can count on Moritz Jenz again Photo: David Indian song/dpa
“He completed the full program throughout the week,” said Reis on Thursday about the 23-year-old. “As things stand now, I’m assuming that he will definitely play tomorrow, which is very good for us as a team.” With Jenz, Schalke had not lost eight times in a row at the beginning of the second half of the season. Without him there were two defeats recently.
Jenz was born in Berlin and played for TeBe until he was 16. Although the talented defender is considered a Hertha fan, the Charlottenburgers didn’t have him on their list. And so he switched to the youth of Fulham FC.
After the 0: 2 on Sunday at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Reis is considering further changes. Second division record scorer Simon Terodde, who was not one of the regular staff recently, could be given a chance. “I’m already toying with the idea of maybe bringing him from the start,” said Reis.
“Judged a little harder”
With regard to the processing of the Hoffenheim game, the coach said: “We were a little harder on ourselves.” The team was very self-critical. “We want to show the face that has distinguished us in recent weeks.”