The eighth day of VfB’s training camp began on a musical note, with both Chris Führich (25) and Thomas Kastanaras (20) celebrating their birthdays in Marbella on Monday. “The way the lads serenaded us this morning was great, but after that it was straight onto the pitch,” said Kastanaras, who is enjoying the new coaching team’s training sessions. “Even us younger lads in the team have been able to cope with the intensity pretty well so far. They always pay attention to controlling the workload as well as possible. We’re feeling fit and are now preparing for our next game.”
Kastanaras gave himself an early birthday present on Sunday afternoon with his stoppage-time goal in the friendly against FC Sion. “The build-up from the back was very good,” said the 20-year-old, reflecting on his effort which gave VfB a 3-0 lead against the Swiss outfit. “Naoui [Ahamada] gave it to Juan [Perea], he spots me, then I score. We need to be alert until the end and try to take our chances in order to keep gaining in confidence.”
After training in the morning, it was time to recharge the batteries and receive a few birthday messages from home in the afternoon. The VfB squad also have a team evening to look forward to later on Monday. “On days when we had three sessions, it wasn’t my birthday,” grinned Kastanaras. “The sun is out again today – it’s a great day.”
Bruno Labbadia’s side have three sessions planned for Tuesday as they continue their preparations for Thursday’s friendly against Sparta Prague.