"A successful training camp"

Markus Babbel is very happy with how the training camp went

The players had not run as much very often as they were made to do at the club training camp in Oberstaufen(Allgäu: "It is their own fault for returning from holiday in such bad shape"; head coach Markus Babbel told herthabsc.de in an exclusive interview after the camp had ended. Read on to find out what else he had to say...

herthabsc.de: Markus Babbel, how would you assess the training camp in Oberstaufen?
Markus Babbel: It was a successful training camp. We had perfect training conditions and a superb team hotel with wonderful staff. The training pitches were close by, and the the lads did a good job, putting into practise what I expect of them. They gritted their teeth and continued on even when it hurt. The injury to Patrick Ebert was unfortunate though.

You really put them through their paces. Many of them said they have never run so much at a training camp. Is that a part of your football phylosophy, or important preparation for what will be a physical season in the second division?
Babbel: They partially have themselves to blame on that front . I never ran so much during my playing days. But they returned from holiday in such bad shape that they had a lot of catching up to do on the fitness front.

What can the players expect on their return to Berlin?
Babbel: From now on we will work more with the ball and also tactics. They have to take our philosophy on board, and we have to see whether it is suited to the players or if any adjustments are necessary. They have to get used to using the new ball which is quite different from the one they are used to. There will however be sessions which will not be as nice.

What must everyone do to get used to life in division two?
Babbel: Accept the mentality, because it is different football. Of course there are some very good teams, but also some which rely on their physical attributes. I am convinced that if we manage to combine our mentality with our qualities we will come through well. But we must not take anything for granted.

You have had a little time to get to know your new club. Is it all as you expected it to be?
Babbel: Even better! I was surprised by the possibilities that exist here. The working facilities are sensational and you sense how every staff member lives and breathes Hertha. I didn't expect it to be that good. It confirms that I made the right decision.

Only four weeks to go until the season starts with a DFB Cup clash. Any goosebumps yet?
Babbel: It is a bit early for that. We are right in the middle of preparation. The goosebumbs will probably come a week or so ahead of our first game.

You have a lot of young and new players. Do you see what you want when you look at them working on the pitch?
Babbel: Absolutely. They have set their sights high. When I feel that someone is not pulling his weight, woe betide him. But I can't see that happening. We have just finished a good training camp, during which we laid the foundation for our season.

How much are you looking forward to the home game against Oberhausen and walking into the Olympic stadium as the new Hertha coach?
Babbel: It will be a big moment which I am very much looking forward to. If things continue to go as well as they have done at training camp, I am sure we will be able to book our first home win of the season.