Progresson continues

Skripnik took both positive and negative insights from the five weeks of pre-season so far. "We are not happy with the number of injured players. Naturally it's unfortunate to have so many players missing at such a crucial stage in pre-season, but almost all clubs have this problem," explained Skripnik. Claudio Pizarro, one of the most recent injury victims, is suffering from muscular problems in his thigh and he was forced to travel back to Bremen on Friday for an MRI appointment. A diagnosis is expected on Saturday.

The team spirit has not been affected however, which was confirmed by both players and manager. "The atmosphere in the team is really good, even during very physical or tactical training sessions. The lads are dedicated and want to improve. I like that," praised Skripnik. "We are considerably further in our preparation than three or four weeks ago."

Defensive work was their main focus in their Zillertal training camp and the Green-Whites conceded just two goals in four friendly games. This time around however, their work was geared towards a higher attacking output. "Keeping possession was a key area we worked on," said Skripnik, who is also looking to improve the players' liveliness and intensity in challenges at this point of pre-season.

Competitive action kicks-off in nine days, when Werder face Sportfreunde Lotte in the opening round of the DFB Cup. Still enough time for fine-tuning any areas that still need to be improved, some of which were visible during their 2-0 friendly match victory over SV Meppen. "Logically we are still missing some automatisms. Furthermore we naturally can't introduce the qualities of our new signings the most effective way yet. But given time it will all work out," promised Skripnik. The head coach can barely wait for the season to begin: "The anticipation is very high."