week 7 - match preview

Rutten expresses respect for Wolfsburg

When Schalke and Wolfsburg clash in the league, every second game ends in a draw. The head-to-head record is evenly balanced, too, because Wolfsburg are awkward opponents. And according to Fred Rutten, the same applies to this Sunday's meeting at the VELTINS Arena.

As well as watching lots of DVDs of Felix Magath's side the Schalke boss ran the rule over them in person when they drew 2-2 at VfL Bochum. Wolfsburg came from 2-0 down that day. "They were hugely impressive. Wolfsburg have a well balanced team with lots of talented players and are always composed on the pitch", said Rutten. "They know how to counterattack and are good at playing the ball out from the back. They've also made some excellent signings, though they still need a bit of time to gel."

Wolfsburg will be without their Brazilian striker Grafite, but Rutten feels they can compensate for his loss. "I don't think that makes them any weaker because Dzeko could be just as good a replacement. He may be young, but he is very talented." The Dutchman therefore believes Wolfsburg are one of Schalke's closest rivals. "At the beginning of the season Bayern Munich were everybody's big favourites. After them came a string of teams and one of them was VfL Wolfsburg. If you ask me they'll be right up there."

Nevertheless Schalke will be looking to extend their 100% home league record on Sunday with the support of some 60,000 fans (just 1,300 standing tickets are still available). The Royal Blues have won their three home games to date without conceding a goal.

In selection terms the situation has improved for Rutten. Fabian Ernst will serve the last of his three-match suspension following his dismissal in Dortmund. "But apart from that we have no major problems following the game against APOEL, just a few minor knocks", the Schalke boss said.

And it looks as if he may be able to call on Jefferson Farfan and Jermaine Jones again, who missed out on Thursday due to illness or injury. Farfan, who has been struggling with flu, was able to do some jogging work on Friday, while Jones completed an individual programme due to his inflamed toe. The midfielder is set to resume full training on Saturday, however. Mathias Schober (calf strain) remains sidelined.