Christensen: "I actually prefer to play in defence."
Andreas Christensen recently spoke to the Monchengladbach official website about their recent poor form and crucial last few games to secure Champions football for next season.
Andreas, you have a home game to look forward to on Sunday after back-to-back away defeats. How pleased are you that the team is back at BORUSSIA-PARK?
Christensen: In light of our disappointing away form and our recent defeats at the hands of Ingolstadt and Hannover, we are of course pleased to be back at home. On Sunday it’s all about getting the win and building our confidence for the end of season run-in.
One of the biggest questions at the moment is how can a team that is so strong at home play so differently away. Do you have an explanation?
Christensen: There is no easy answer to that question, as we approach every single game with the same mentality - to leave the pitch as winners. In our previous two away matches, we didn’t play to our potential and weren’t able to make ground on Schalke for example. It’s difficult to explain why we have only picked up one point away from home in 2016. One thing is certain: it’s got nothing to do with our fans. They have been fantastic at every single away match, equally good as at BORUSSIA-PARK.
Despite the two recent defeats, you are still fifth in the table as a lot of your direct opponents also slipped up. What aim do you have for the remaining four matches?
Christensen: Our main aim is still to secure Champions League as long as that is still possible. We have been lucky recently that other teams around us have also struggled, but that’s not something we can rely on every week. On the other hand, you could say we missed two big chances in Ingolstadt and Hannover to put some distance between us and them. This makes it even more imperative that we get the win against Hoffenheim.
Manager André Schubert decided to play you in midfield against Hannover despite the fact that your position this season has been centre half. Did you enjoy the new position?
Christensen: I actually prefer to play in defence, but the difference between the positions is minimal. As a midfielder, you have to cover more ground and ensure you always have an eye on the space behind you. In every other regard, it’s very similar. All that matters is that I focus on my game, and do my job with 100’% concentration. That’s what I always try to do, regardless of what position the manager puts me in.
You next opponents, TSG Hoffenheim, are one of the best form teams of 2016. What sort of match are you expecting on Sunday?
Christensen: The pressure is very high at this stage of the season, and both teams have a lot riding on this game. Hoffenheim are enjoying a good period, but are still involved in a relegation battle. We will give everything to fight for a Champions League place. A win would be huge for either team. Hoffenheim have a very strong side physically, and they won’t make it easy for us. We need to try and control the match from early on. We will give our all to come out on top.
