Casteels: TSG's man between the posts

Koen Casteels had a successful debut for TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. The 20 year old Belgian played his first Bundesliga game in TSG's 3-1 victory over Hannover 96 and was pleased with his showing: “I think it was an acceptable performance. The victory was extremely important for the team. For me, it was a dream come true”, said Casteels.

Over a year ago, Casteels left Belgian first division side KRC Genk for Hoffenheim. Since then, the U21 international goalkeeper has steadily improved his game. “He has to get used the German toughness but he is extremely talented and technically very good”, goalkeeping coach Zsolt Petry said. Casteels also knows how to kick a ball. In a friendly, Babbel let him play in the centre of defence. “I used to play outfield and as a result, I feel comfortable in control of the ball. In Belgium there is a big focus on having two good feet. Apart from that, it is also good for a goalkeeper to understand the situations that an outfield player deals with”, added Casteels.

In the away game in Stuttgart, the towering goalkeeper will once again replace the injured Tim Wiese. Casteels had a fairly quiet debut but is aware that he may well have more to do in the Mercedes Benz Arena on Wednesday night. “Stuttgart are a good team, especially Vedad Ibisevic. He's someone we will have to be careful of and make sure that he doesn't get any space in the penalty area because he knows exactly where the goal is”, warned the 20 year old goalkeeper.