Werner urges caution against an in-form HSV side who finally “arrived in the league”

The Leipzig coach gave an insight into his squad availability, their opponents HSV and former striker Yussuf Poulsen.

In his press conference for their meeting with Hamburger SV, coach Ole Werner offered an update on his squad’s bill of health. 

“Max Finkgräfe is back in training, but he’s not ready for Saturday. Benny Henrichs and Kosta Nedeljković are still out.

Xaver Schlager was fully involved in training this week, feels good, and is therefore available again as an option,” he told the media. 

Werner, captivated by HSV’s 4-0 win over Mainz before the international break, is prepared for a difficult game on Saturday afternoon. 

“We’re playing against a team that has arrived in the league, has had really good performances recently, and has picked up points.

A team that transitions well, is well organized – in possession and also in the way they defend. For us, that means we have to be alert and attentive in every phase,” he said.

Regarding his short time with Yussuf Poulsen, who left Leipzig for Hamburg in summer, he found the Dane to be a “very pleasant person”. 

“It was great – and that, along with his athletic ability, is exactly what sets him apart. He will certainly receive a warm welcome.

He absolutely deserves it as a record-breaking player. Nevertheless, we will try to make things as difficult as possible for him on the pitch,” Werner added.