FC St. Pauli

Guido Burgstaller on…

...the recent international break: "We were given three days off and so everyone had time to switch off. It did us good mentally. In training we did some physical work but also had time to work on substance. We had a good week."

...his changing strike partners: "With Simon recently we’ve been focusing on bypassing the lines and thus getting ball forward more quickly. I’ve been going deep and playing off him as an outball. I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve always been able to put myself in the shoes of the other players. It’s worked very well with all of them so far."

...opponents Hansa Rostock: "I know there’s a big rivalry between the two clubs. It’s an important game for the fans. I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be very heated and full of emotions. Rostock are on form and have won their last few games. Their performances have shown how stable they’ve become. Rostock are a good side with a decent striker up front who knows where the goal is. It won’t be easy. We’re going to have to get close to 100 per cent if we want to take the points."

Guido Burgstaller makes it three in the 4-0 home win over Hansa Rostock.

...the importance of topping the scoring chart: "Those who know me know I give my all for the team. I’m no individualist, the success of the team is more important to me. Goals obviously help teams, but because the success of the team is all that counts, I’m not really bothered about scoring if we get three points. It would be sensational if we got promoted, of course. In that case, it wouldn’t matter whether we had the leading scorer or assist-giver in the team.”

...the current situation and the possibility of going up: "We’re right up there and have some tough matches coming up in the run-in. It can go all ways. It’ll be important for us stay relaxed and be consistent in our performances without making any big mistakes. It doesn’t matter whether you play your opponents off the park or not. Getting a result is all that matters. That’s what we’re trying to do - by any means. I’m positive we can do well."

...the possible fear of success: "We have nothing to lose and are looking forward to the remaining games. We’re not frightened at all. You can already say the season has been a positive one. We’ve made excellent progress - perhaps faster than expected. We’re pleased about that and want to finish on a positive note."

...the run-in against teams challenging for promotion or fighting relegation: "You can’t afford to underestimate anyone in this league, as we seen often enough this season. If you’re not at one hundred per cent, you’ll have problems against any team. We have a cool schedule ahead of us and we’re looking forward to it. We’re looking forward to the run-in, it’s up for grabs now.“

...his sporting future: "I still have a contract here, I feel comfortable and I’m not giving it too much thought. I’m at a certain age and the only thing I’m thinking about is how long I can continue. I still feel very good both physically and mentally. Let’s see how long I want to keep playing. At the moment I have no reason to hang my boots up."

Photos: Witters