30.11.2016
"I expect a battling duel"
SV Darmstadt 98 striker Sven Schipplock is on loan from HSV – the team he faces on Sunday in a Bundesliga matchday 13 encounter. The former Hoffenheim forward has a contract at the Volksparkstadion which expires on June 30th 2018. In a chat with HSV.de he discussed his special situation, his time with the Lilies and remaining contacts in the Rothosen camp.
HSV.de: You missed Darmstadt’s 0-3 defeat at Schalke because of a cold. Will you be fit in time to face HSVS?
Sven Schipplock:
Yes I am feeling fine and recovered. I am delighted to have become fit in time for this special game. Now coming training sessions will decide if and how long I play. That of course is down to the coach.
How are you doing on the whole in Darmstadt, settled in well?
Schipplock:
I’m fine. I now live closer to home and use every opportunity to visit family and friends. Things are a bit different at SV Darmstadt. They have a certain flair with the stadium and fans. We are a close group and our clear goal of avoiding relegation has been there since the start of the season.
Good mates and competitors: Pierre-Michel Lasogga and Sven Schipplock.
Your current club have surprisingly become competition for HSV. How closely do you follow the progress of the Rothosen?
Schipplock:
I am still quite close to it still and have regular contact with the likes of Pierre, Nicolai and Michi. I was at the recent Hoffenheim game and visited the lads in the changing rooms afterwards. I am still a HSV player even if they represent direct competition for Darmstadt. If possible I would like both clubs to stay up.
The teams go head to head on Sunday. Have you ever experienced such a situation?
Schipplock:
No it is new for me and really special. Both teams have their backs to the wall and I have to play against my mates. I will try to focus on my performance and not be too distracted by the special circumstances. Friendship takes a back seat on Sunday and we want to keep all three points here.
What kind of game do you expect?
Schipplock:
Tough to say. HSV are recovering, finding their way back to former strengths and have more confidence right now. It will be a real old battle rather than a game of skills. The fact is that teams struggle when they play at our Böllenfalltor stadium. There is a lot at stake and we are keen to win come what may.
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