The games are coming thick and fast for the new head coach, with VfB kicking off a run of four games in 11 days with Saturday’s trip to FC St. Pauli. “St. Pauli have created the most clear-cut chances from counter-attacks in the entire league this season, while conceding the fewest clear-cut opportunities in the division,” Matarazzo told the media at Friday’s pre-match press conference. “That’s why we need to make the most of the chances that come our way. We need to shake off our inconsistencies, not let ourselves be influenced by external factors and find stability.”
“A couple of options in terms of personnel and formation”
The VfB boss stopped short of revealing who will start Saturday’s game at the Millerntor-Stadion – partly because the recent 3-0 win at home to Heidenheim has left Matarazzo with plenty of options to consider, but also because question marks remain over the fitness of a number of VfB players. Daniel Didavi, who landed awkwardly on his shoulder against Heidenheim, is on the mend, while Nicolas Gonzalez has returned to light training after sustaining a cut to his shin.
Centre-back Nathaniel Phillips is doubtful with a bruised thigh but Matarazzo is not concerned about defensive numbers, with Gonzalo Castro available again after missing the Heidenheim match through suspension. “We have a few options,” said the head coach. “It remains to be seen whether we’ll play with three or four at the back. There are a couple of viable options, both in terms of personnel and basic formation.”
Matarazzo, by his own admission, did not enjoy many highlights as a player, but one moment that sticks out was standing in the Millerntor-Stadion tunnel as a visiting player before running out onto the pitch to the tune of ‘Hells Bells’. If the 42-year-old manages to guide VfB to victory this weekend, this latest visit could end up being just as memorable.