Tim Walter: "That's exactly what drives us".

Already at the start of training last Monday (20 June), Tim Walter exemplified what will be in demand at HSV in the coming season: Drawing positive energy from the extremely disappointing end to the pre-season and taking the next, decisive steps. The 46-year-old is bubbling over with anticipation and his attitude is meeting with approval from his team. The head coach explained this in today's media round, which covered all the relevant topics concerning the Red Shorts. They talked about the improvement of automatisms, the goals for the upcoming season, the transfer turnaround of Sonny Kittel and, of course, the latest addition to the squad, Laszlo Benes. Coach Walter answered all the questions with plenty of attacking enthusiasm in his voice and set out the ambitious agenda for the 2022/23 season.

In detail, Tim Walter spoke about... 
 

... the refinement of the game idea: "Our construct is designed to be broad-based and to become better at everything. Even though we had the best defence, we can still get better in that area. Sometimes it's luck and bad luck, but first and foremost it's a lot of work. But that doesn't happen overnight, so I'm glad I'm still here and can build on the foundations we've laid. In the dressing room, the disappointment from pre-season has triggered so much energy, which is simply brilliant. That's what drives us.

... the target for the coming season: I always want to win anyway, so it's in my interest that we are as ambitious as possible. We all have a lot of fun when we win games. Not only me, but also the boys. So next season we want to get even more points.

... the squad structure: I want to make the boys and the club better, establish a structure. That's why I always like to work with the player material that is available to me. Of course, we also try to land good players.

... Sonny Kittel: Jonas Boldt and I spoke to him on the phone several times and pointed out that he wasn't finished at HSV. That's how he saw it in the end and that's why he's staying here. It's always the case that you are connected to your heart somewhere. That certainly plays a role in his case. It's his decision, which he fortunately made in favour of HSV. 

... the transfer of Laszlo Benes: For sure he can bring that certain extra. He has an excellent left foot, a very good understanding of the game. That's why he can definitely make us better, even if he hasn't played much recently. We have to see how he presents himself, but we are very optimistic because he will also fit into our structure in terms of character.