Interview

Fabian Klos: “For some reason, I have always liked HSV”

Bielefeld forward Fabian Klos talks in an interview with HSV.de about his club allegiances, the ambitions of Arminia and the upcoming game at the Volksparkstadion on Monday.

Fabian Klos is the all-time record goalscorer for Arminia Bielefeld and only six players have made more appearances for the club. These facts clearly indicate how he is a Bielefeld legend. The 30-year-old striker moved to Arminia in the summer of 2011 and became a fans’ favourite with his 114 goals in 260 games. Klos has also been the club captain for many years and has become the voice of the team. In the interview with HSV.de, the goalscorer is refreshingly honest when talking about his seven years at Arminia, the working methods of head coach Jess Saibene and the upcoming game on Monday.

Following on from the strong end to last season, you have also made a positive start to this campaign. What are the reasons behind your success?

Fabian Klos: Our team has successfully implemented what the coach has demanded from us. We have a clear plan on how we want to play, as well as how to cope with the opposition. We have ultimately been able to pick up more points.

You have played for Bielefeld for more than seven years and have become a club icon, which you have talked about publicly. How do you perceive your role in the club?

I know that I have an important role in the club and the city, which has developed over the years. I always try to set a good example as I am one of the oldest players and hold a position of leadership.

Ever since Jeff Saibene took over the reigns as head coach, you have been on an upward curvature. How does the Luxembourger go about his work, and what is his recipe for success?

Just like I said before, he has a very clear idea about how he wants us to play. He works meticulously and is a quiet, matter-of-fact person. However, he can be more assertive in certain situations. This combination is working really well for us at the moment.

You currently lie third in the table, with four points from your first two games. What are Arminia’s objectives for the season?

To get points! As many as we can and as fast as possible. The league is incredibly tight and evenly balanced this season. It will be a decent season if we can finish in the top half.

Arminia signed former HSV striker Sven Schipplock this summer. How has your first week with him been, and how do you view the competition for places in forward areas?

“Schippo” is a great guy. I was really pleased for him to get a brace in the DFB-Pokal because goals are extremely important for a striker. I hope this is just the beginning for him. We have enough options in forward areas overall but every player wants to play which means they have to work extra hard to be given the chance. It is a win-win situation for the coach.

HSV lost the opening game of the season at home to Holstein Kiel but won the next game at Sandhausen. How have you rated the start Die Rothosen have made?

Despite the loss against Kiel, HSV started the game well, and against Sandhausen two of the goals were gifted to them. That is the way football is sometimes. I do believe it is better to play HSV early in the season rather than later, before they find their feet and adjust to the league.

What role do you see HSV playing this season?

I believe they will continue to get stronger as the season progresses and will fulfil their role as favourites. Come the end of the season, HSV will be promoted comfortably.

There has been a long-lasting friendship between DSC and HSV. How do the players perceive this? Does it influence the game?

The players should be aware of which clubs the fans have a friendship with. At the same time, it should stay a concern for the fans only. It will not have an impact on the players.

There are expected to be over 40,000 fans in the Volksparkstadion on Monday. Will that be anything special for you as an experienced player, or do you just see it is another game?

It will most certainly be a special game for me and everyone else. You can’t help but be excited to play HSV in Hamburg but we are not just going there for a day out, we definitely want to get the points.

You grew up in Gifhorn, Lower Saxony. What team did you follow when you were younger? Do you have any affection for HSV?

I have no connections with HSV but I have always liked the club, for some reason. I would therefore be delighted if we win and HSV still end up being promoted in the end.