Markus Gisdol: “Maybe we could dance the Polonaise if we win”

The memories of the 3-2 cup defeat are still very fresh. Manager Markus Gisdol and midfielder Sejad Salihovic talked about that game in the pre-match press conference. “When you face the same opponents twice in a short space of time, of course the preparations change. All of the coaching staff and the players can still remember the game very well,” said Gisdol. Sejad Salihovic added: “We felt the pain of that defeat straight after the final whistle, but we put in a good performance. We can build on both that and our performances from the past couple of weeks.”

Wolfsburg are currently fifth in the Bundesliga table – Dieter Hecking's side have now been in the top six for the last twelve matchdays. “Wolfsburg justify their Champions League ambitions,” said Gisdol. “The game offers a big challenge. We're looking forward to it and we want to beat a side of their calibre at home.”

Few personnel worries

With one eye on the upcoming carnival period in Germany, the manager has a special celebration in mind: “Maybe we could dance the Polonaise in the VIP section or in front of the stadium if we win. Otherwise, ‘Fasching' hasn't played a role in my thoughts about the game or the upcoming week.”

In terms of his squad, Gisdol is hoping to have no personnel issues going into the game against the Wolves. David Abraham is expected to return to training on Friday following adductor problems and Sven Schipplock, who hasn't featured as much during the week, is on the way to being available for selection.

De Bruyne tough to stop

Gisdol has a lot of respect for one of the visitors' players in particular – Kevin de Bruyne. Wolfsburg's January signing was the stand-out player for his side in the recent cup encounter. “He is an exceptional footballer. He's someone you will never be able to keep out of the game for the whole 90 minutes,” said Gisdol.

The boss didn't want to reveal whether Eugen Polanski – who returns following a yellow-card suspension – will be the one tasked with making life difficult for the Belgian. After all, what manager reveals their hand ahead of time? The chances of a victory Polonaise dance certainly wouldn't increase if Gisdol did.

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