week 16 - match preview

Patience and organisation key against Hertha

Schalke contest their final home game of the year against third-placed Hertha BSC Berlin this Saturday (1530 CET). "They're a good team", warns Fred Rutten. "We'll need to keep our shape for the full 90 minutes."

Hertha have won their last four games, while Schalke have taken all three points from just one of their four Bundesliga fixtures. Nevertheless the Dutchman is confident his team can achieve a positive result against the Berliners. "Their fighting spirit has been much in evidence in recent games, the lads haven't let their heads drop", Rutten explained. "We just haven't had that little bit of luck you need. But I'm convinced it'll return."

Despite all the determination to do well against Hertha, the Schalke boss has warned his players about being over-motivated in their approach. "We can't afford to go into the game like madmen and fall into a trap. What's more important is that we keep our shape from start to finish because Hertha are dangerous on the counter. We also have to be patient. They're on form at the moment and have been working hard for their points."

Schalke intend to use the game to mend their relationship with the home crowd. "I hope the fans will back the players for 90 minutes", Rutten said. "I understand they're disappointed but with their support I'm sure we'll get back on the right track."

Three points against Hertha would also make a nice birthday present for three members of the Schalke camp. Rutten celebrates his 46th birthday today (5 Dec), while Vicente Sanchez is 29 on Sunday and Halil Altintop 26 on Monday. "At the end of the day it's the club that's important, though, not individuals", stressed Rutten. Nevertheless, a point for each of the three birthday boys would be most welcome.

Marcelo Bordon remains a doubt, however. The Schalke skipper missed the game in Enschede due to a hip injury and trained on his own on Friday. "We'll have to see how his body is responding on Saturday morning", said Rutten, who will sit down with the player and the club doctor before reaching a decision.

Otherwise not much has changed on the injury front. Albert Streit (knee), Peter Lovenkrands and Ze Roberto (both muscle strains) remain unavailable. There is positive news on Levan Kenia, however. The Georgia international had been sidelined by an ankle injury but has now started jogging training.