Boldt: "Want to lay the groundwork for a strong finish"

Jonas Boldt, HSV's director of sport, attended his first training session after arriving at the Santa Maria Polo Club in Spain on Friday afternoon (5th January). Boldt is already familiar with the "excellent conditions" in Spain from previous years and will be pleased to have seen the team hard at work at the start of the new year. During a press conference, Boldt once again made clear that these measures will help the team to be stronger, more resilient and successful in the second half of the season. In order for this to be reflected in improved performances, all those involved will need to do their part. This year's training camp in Sotogrande will therefore be an important building block in this process. 

Hear from Jonas Boldt on…

…training camp: We want to lay the groundwork for a successful second half to the season. We have a lot of work to do. Our training sessions will be a key factor in achieving this. We also identified a few areas at the end of last year that we now want to work on. Being able to spend lots of time together and talk will really help. We want to pick up points in the second half of the season and don't want to be accused of not having given everything at the end. It won't be an easy task and will require a lot of energy, which we want to lay the foundations for here. 

…taking on responsibility: Everyone at HSV want to achieve something – that includes the coaching staff, management and the players. I've said before that I wasn't happy with the first half of the season, but not once did I invite any discussion on our head coach. There's not always one person that's to blame, although I get the feeling that it's become a trend in Germany to single someone out. That approach is too simple for me. As a club, we all have a responsibility to do more. 

…the winter transfer window: The transfer window is open, so there's a lot of speculation right now. But, you can't let yourself be influenced by what you might see in the papers. The hype that's been created around transfers in recent years is definitely not healthy, as it often doesn't reflect reality. We're a strong second-division side that has room for improvement in several areas, including the squad. If certain options become available to us, then we will act. That's always our duty. But, it's common knowledge that the situation isn't any easier in the winter. 

…Bakery Jatta: He's a special player that I've grown close with during our time together. I don't think that any player has been shown more appreciation than Baka. We would love to keep him here. He's in a comfortable position and the decision is in his hands. He has to weigh what he has here, versus what he might get somewhere else. I think a move this winter is unlikely.